Luka Doncic and JJ Redick turn the heat on another Lakers player

The Lakers boast a dynamic “big three” with LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves. These three powerhouses make up one of the most formidable offensive units in the NBA. However, this dominance might also be causing some friction within the franchise—something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by JJ Redick.

While the trio usually doesn’t disappoint, last night was an exception. Luka Doncic and LeBron James faced some struggles, paving the way for others—like Dorian Finney-Smith (DFS)—to rescue the team. DFS stepped up with a 20-point performance, helping the Lakers narrowly edge past the Rockets. Despite the win, coach JJ Redick wasn’t entirely satisfied.

Luka Doncic and JJ Redick want more from DFS

Last night’s game was peculiar for the Lakers, as Dorian Finney-Smith attempted 11 three-pointers, sinking six of them. However, JJ Redick felt he could have done even more—a sentiment shared by Luka Doncic. “It should’ve been 14. He should’ve shot 14. He passed up three,” said Redick during the post-game press conference.

JJ Redick also used the opportunity to emphasize his trust in DFS’s abilities on the court. “I believe his teammates have a lot of confidence in him. As a coaching staff, we do too. Sometimes he just needs a little loving reminder to keep shooting.”

 

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Redick’s message was clear: he wants DFS to adopt a more aggressive approach when looking for three-point opportunities. “In particular, look at the types of shots he gets—whether it’s a corner three or a pick-and-pop against a five, these are open shots. We’re not going to get a better look. He has to be willing to empty the clip every night.” With Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin commanding defensive attention, DFS often finds himself wide open. This is why Redick and Doncic agree the team would benefit more if DFS shot instead of making extra passes.

Luka Doncic echoes redick’s sentiment

This perspective is one Luka Doncic wholeheartedly agrees with. “I told Dorian he needed to shoot more. He was wide open three or four more times, but he didn’t take the shot. That’s what I told him,” Luka shared post-game.

The message to DFS is loud and clear—both JJ Redick and Luka Doncic have voiced it: he needs to be more aggressive to solidify the team. His contributions could be exactly what the Big Three require when they’re not having their best nights.

Gabe Vincent & Dorian Finney Smith with back to back threes 🔥🔥🔥

DFS and Gabe have been huge off the bench for the Lakers hitting ELEVEN THREES between the two vets pic.twitter.com/RcNIYVjS0c

— LakeShow Highlights (@LSH_lakeshow) April 1, 2025

In fact, DFS’s scoring spree was the reason the Lakers emerged victorious. Without his offensive output, the team might have fallen short. The trio of LeBron, Austin, and Luka Doncic combined for just 48 points, struggling to find their rhythm throughout the game.

Faced with this lackluster performance, Luka Doncic admitted it was the trio’s worst outing yet. “I think this was our worst game as a trio so far,” Luka confessed. Just a couple of days ago, the three stars had one of their best games, racking up 85 points together.

Although Luka Doncic previously seemed in sync with LeBron and Austin, last night’s performance raises questions. Then again, it might just have been an off night—it happens to everyone. Either way, the team remains focused on moving the ball and playing cohesively.

“It’s all about taking it game by game. Every game will be a battle, and we’re going to try to win them all,” said Luka Doncic. At the end of the day, what truly matters is advancing as a team and securing the championship—not who racks up the most points.