The Los Angeles Lakers began their five-game road trip with a disappointing 122-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, a team missing several key players. Lakers head coach JJ Redick appeared visibly frustrated after the game, quickly wrapping up his postgame press conference in under two minutes and answering just six questions, all with brief responses.
The game started poorly for the Lakers, as they only held a one-point lead for less than two minutes. The Hawks took control early and led 68-54 by halftime, extending their advantage to 90-65 in the third quarter. Recognizing the struggle of his starting lineup, Redick opted to pull star player Luka Doncic, who managed to finish with 22 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds.
Redick reflected on the game, stating he realized the starting five wouldn’t meet expectations right from the start. The Hawks, missing several starters including All-Star Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis, turned to their bench for a strong performance. Zachcharie Risacher, Onyeka Okongwu, Keaton Wallace, Dyson Daniels, and Mouhamed Gueye made up the Hawks’ starting lineup, with Gueye achieving a career-high 21 points. Daniels contributed with a personal best of 13 assists, while rookie Asa Newell had a breakout performance, recording 17 points along with five rebounds, four steals, and a block.
Redick acknowledged the Hawks’ superior effort and urgency, contrasting it with his team’s performance. Looking ahead, the Lakers will face the Charlotte Hornets next, followed by games against the Thunder, Pelicans, and Bucks before returning home. Meanwhile, Atlanta will be up against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night, aiming to build on their impressive outing.