Following their Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers face a period of reflection and adjustment. Despite a strong regular season, Los Angeles, seeded third in the Western Conference and favored by some to advance, were unable to overcome the Timberwolves, highlighting areas where the team needs to improve.
Los Angeles Lakers Lacked the Conditioning Necessary to Win In the Playoffs
Head coach JJ Redick acknowledged this reality, stating, “We have to get in championship shape,” according to a post from Jovan Buha. Redick’s assessment suggests a disparity within the team, as Buha noted, “Redick notes some players were in ‘phenomenal’ shape and others could’ve been in better shape. But collectively, they need to be in better shape.”
One player whose conditioning has been a topic of discussion is Luka Doncic. Concerns about Doncic’s fitness have been raised, with suggestions that it negatively impacted the Lakers, particularly on the defensive end. This has led to speculation that Doncic might be among the players Redick alluded to when discussing the need for improved overall conditioning.
Regardless of the specific players Redick was referencing, the Lakers’ series against the Timberwolves revealed that the team has not yet reached its full potential. While possessing considerable talent, the Lakers demonstrated an inability to consistently perform at a championship level, indicating that addressing the team’s overall conditioning will be a crucial step in their pursuit of contention.