Lakers Defense Upgrade Tested | Los Angeles Lakers News

The Lakers just dropped a defensive bombshell in July, trading for Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, and Matisse Thybulle to transform their identity — all while LeBron and Smart are gone. Coach JJ Redick now has a new toolbox to shut down opponents, but the real test is whether this defense can coexist with Luka and Reaves’ offense. Kessler’s rim protection could free up perimeter players, but his fit in pick-and-roll chaos is crucial. Grimes brings versatile guard coverage and shooting, while Thybulle’s disruptive energy aims to force turnovers. The betting world’s watching closely — preseason hype won’t cut it. The first few weeks of the regular season will reveal if this defensive overhaul actually works, or if it’s just noise. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/318b9dea2aca60ba