Luka Dončić isn’t just cooking — he’s torching defenses. And according to Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, any team that dares to play drop coverage against him is making a fatal mistake.
After another monster performance from Dončić, Redick didn’t hold back. His message to the rest of the league? Figure out a different defensive strategy—or prepare to suffer.
JJ Redick’s Blunt Reality Check on Defending Luka Dončić
Following a dominant win over the Clippers, Redick broke it down in the most matter-of-fact way possible.
“The nature of playing with Luka Dončić is, if you play drop coverage against him, you’re going to die.”
Yep, that’s a direct quote.
Redick went on to explain that teams either have to hedge hard or blitz Dončić because leaving him space is just asking for trouble. Give him room off the pick-and-roll? He’ll pick defenses apart.
And the numbers back it up. Dončić is shredding drop coverage this season, effortlessly sinking mid-range jumpers and finding open teammates whenever defenders sag off. It was a rude awakening for the Clippers, and Redick is making sure every other team takes notes before it’s too late.
Why Luka Dončić Is an Unstoppable Puzzle
The scary part? Redick isn’t just hyping up his guy—he’s stating facts. Dončić’s ability to manipulate defenses is what separates him from other stars. If defenders drop back, he hits the shot. If they blitz, he finds the open man. If they hedge, he breaks them down with elite footwork and passing. It’s a lose-lose situation for opponents.
Redick also pointed out that having a lineup full of shooters makes Dončić even more lethal.
The trio of LeBron James, the surging Austin Reaves, and the highly efficient Rui Hachimura, when fully healthy, gives defenses no shortage of concerns. Heading into Monday night’s action, Los Angeles sixth in overall team shooting percentage (48.1).
With floor-spacing weapons around him, defenses can’t afford to double-team without leaving someone wide open. And with Dončić’s IQ, that’s an automatic bucket.
“We have to be better, and we’re going to figure that out,” Redick added.
Translation: Dončić is already a problem, and the Lakers are working on making their entire lineup an offensive nightmare.
If teams weren’t paying attention before, Redick just put the entire NBA on notice. Now, let’s see if the rest of the league actually listens. If they don’t adjust, they’ll suffer the same fate as the Clippers.
One thing is clear: Dončić isn’t slowing down anytime soon. The real question is whether teams can come up with a defensive plan to stop him—and silence Redick’s confidence in the process.
