Key Highlights
- Luke Kennard traded from Atlanta to Los Angeles Lakers in February 2026.
- Kennard leading the league with a 49.7% three-point shooting percentage.
- His ability to create havoc and get into the paint complements the Lakers’ offense.
- Redick praises Kennard’s “we score” mentality, focusing on team success.
Luke Kennard’s arrival at the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2026 was a coup. The trade, swapping Gabe Vincent for a future second-round pick and Kennard himself, aimed to bolster the Lakers’ bench with NBA’s best three-point shooter. But Kennard is more than just a marksman; he’s a blender starter.
Blending In
The term “blender” describes how his presence forces opposing defenses into disarray—causing them to overreact and rotate, creating confusion within their formations. “Luke Kennard just starts the blender for us,” JJ Redick said after a recent Lakers win against Golden State. This disruption allows teammates like LeBron James and Austin Reaves to operate more freely.
From Shooter to Playmaker
Kennard’s impact extends beyond just making shots; he excels in creating opportunities. In three straight wins, Kennard averaged 12.0 points per game on 52.0% shooting, hitting nine of fifteen threes (60.0%). He added nine assists and multiple hockey assists, demonstrating his ability to initiate the offense from anywhere.
Redick’s Praise
“Yeah, I love it,” Redick stated. “He gives us confidence not just as a spot-up shooter but also in getting into the lane and making plays for others.” Kennard’s ‘we score’ mentality is evident when he initiates plays or gets into the paint after receiving a swing pass from LeBron or Austin Reaves.
LeBron’s Perspective
“He shoots the ball so well,” LeBron said. “But his ability to get in the lane and make plays for others as well, he’s damn good at it.” This dual capability—shooting and playmaking—is precisely what makes Kennard a valuable asset.
Redick’s Tactical Play
In one notable instance against New Orleans, Kennard executed an ATO (after time out) play. “He scores on it,” Redick exclaimed. “Could have shot it off the initial screen, created the blender, eventually got it back, hits a step-back three.” This snippet highlights how Kennard’s presence creates complex and interconnected plays.
Pride in Performance
Kennard is thrilled with his new role on the Lakers. “I’ve loved it,” he said of his time thus far. “It’s great when we win, but obviously, playing for the Lakers is the highest level you can be at.” His pride and excitement are palpable, driven by the team’s success and the opportunities to contribute meaningfully.
In conclusion, Luke Kennard brings more than just three-point shooting to the Lakers. His ability to blend into the offense and create havoc, combined with his playmaking skills, make him a crucial addition to the roster. The Lakers are undoubtedly better off with him on board.