Lakers Fall Flat Against Hawks, Drop Road Trip Opener 102–122
Tonight, the Los Angeles Lakers had a chance to secure what some would consider an easily winnable game against the Atlanta Hawks. The Lakers were coming off two nights of rest, while Atlanta was on the second night of a back-to-back. The stage was set, and the Lakers floundered.
JJ Redick’s postgame press conference lasted less than 2 MINUTES… 😳
He was NOT happy with his locker room. pic.twitter.com/uGeR4kRVsF
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) November 9, 2025
Early Adjustments on Luka Dončić
JJ Redick knew Dyson Daniels would check Luka Dončić early, so he adjusted. Rather than letting Luka bring the ball up, he had other ball handlers advance the offense past half-court. Then Luka received the ball in space. Dyson was forced into a cat-and-mouse battle, fighting over and under screens just to stay on Luka’s hip.
Hawks Bring Pressure
However, the Hawks sent early blitzes at Luka, too. That pressure, mixed with Luka picking up two quick fouls, limited his defensive intensity for most of the half.
Turnovers and Lost Possessions
Meanwhile, the Lakers’ biggest weakness showed up again. They committed 19 turnovers, and Atlanta scored 36 points off those mistakes. LA also ranks second-worst in field-goal attempt differential, and it continues to cost them. Offensive rebounds and fastbreak points kept piling up, and Atlanta took full advantage tonight.
Lakers Missed Opportunity Against Shorthanded Hawks
On the other side, the Hawks were missing Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Kristaps Porziņģis. It should have been a chance for the Lakers to control the game.
And yes, Los Angeles was without Gabe Vincent, Adou Thiero, LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and others. But that doesn’t erase the slow start or the lack of energy. Getting held to a season low of 102 points made everything uphill.
Bright Spots for Los Angeles
There were a few bright spots, though. Maxi Kleber’s minutes were encouraging as he works back into form.
Jarred Vanderbilt delivered a strong double-double and looked like one of the only Lakers consistently fighting for rebounds.
Looking Ahead on the Road Trip
This was only the beginning of a five-game road trip. Up next is a young Charlotte squad, followed by a scorching OKC team sitting atop the Western Conference. The Lakers need to handle the “gimme” games like tonight. One win can swing multiple spots in the standings.
