Under head coach JJ Redick, the Los Angeles Lakers are playing a brand of basketball that emphasizes spatial awareness and offensive efficiency. At the center of this tactical shift is Anthony Davis. Instead of settling for mid-range jumpers, Davis is being utilized as a deep-paint finisher, spearheaded by LeBron James operating in high-low sets.
By placing LeBron at the elbow, the Lakers force opposing centers to respect his passing and driving lanes. This prevents defenders from sagging off to double Davis in the post. The results speak for themselves: Davis is enjoying one of the most efficient scoring stretches of his career, with a massive increase in restricted area attempts.
Additionally, Redick's emphasis on three-point volume from the wings has opened up the floor. Teams can no longer pack the paint without paying a heavy price. While the Lakers' defense remains a work in progress, their offensive identity is clearer and more lethal than it has been in years.