Day 3 of the Lakers Training Camp saw a new level of intensity as the team continued to push itself in preparation for the upcoming season. With JJ Redick leading the charge, players are stepping up in the highly competitive environment. Redick has been especially vocal about standout performers like Gabe Vincent, while providing updates on promising talents like Christian Koloko and Cam Reddish.

JJ Redick on Gabe Vincent: A Key Piece in the Backcourt

Gabe Vincent, the Lakers’ offseason acquisition from the Miami Heat, has been turning heads during camp. Redick is already seeing Vincent’s leadership and defensive intensity as major assets to the team.

Redick’s Praise for Vincent:

• Defensive Impact: Redick emphasized Vincent’s defensive tenacity, saying, “Gabe’s one of those guys who doesn’t take plays off. His defensive energy is contagious, and he’s a disruptor on that end of the floor.”
• Backcourt Leadership: With his playoff experience, Vincent is already emerging as a key voice in the backcourt. Redick noted, “He’s a floor general out there. He knows how to make the right reads, keep the tempo up, and find his teammates in the right spots.”
• Offensive Versatility: Redick also highlighted Vincent’s shooting and playmaking. “He gives us another guy who can space the floor and handle the ball. He’s comfortable playing off the ball, which works well with D’Angelo [Russell] and Austin [Reaves].”

Christian Koloko: Pushing for a Role

Christian Koloko, who has been working hard to prove himself as a legitimate rotation player, continues to make progress in camp. Redick has spoken positively about Koloko’s development, particularly on the defensive end.

Koloko’s Update:

• Defensive Growth: Koloko has impressed with his shot-blocking and rim protection, a key component of Redick’s defensive strategy. “Christian’s doing a great job of protecting the rim. He’s showing flashes of being the kind of defensive anchor we need off the bench,” Redick said.
• Energy and Hustle: Koloko’s motor has been evident throughout camp, with Redick praising his energy. “He’s always active, whether it’s contesting shots or running the floor. That’s the kind of hustle we want from our big men.”
• Offensive Development: While Koloko’s defense is ahead of his offensive game, Redick noted that he’s working hard to improve. “He’s raw offensively, but we’re seeing progress in his pick-and-roll game and finishing around the rim.”

Cam Reddish: Update on His Role

Cam Reddish, who was seen as a potential sleeper signing for the Lakers this offseason, has been making strides during camp, but there’s still work to be done for him to carve out a regular role in the rotation.

Reddish’s Role:

• Adjusting to Redick’s System: Reddish is still adjusting to the defensive schemes and finding his role within the team. Redick stated, “Cam has all the tools to be an impact player, especially defensively. It’s just about getting him comfortable with the system and building consistency.”
• Offensive Potential: Reddish has flashed his scoring ability in spurts, particularly in transition and isolation. Redick noted, “He’s got the ability to create his own shot, which is valuable for us. We just need him to do it more consistently.”
• Competing for Minutes: Reddish will have to fight for a spot in the rotation, especially with the Lakers’ depth on the wing. “There’s competition, but that’s what brings out the best in guys. Cam’s in that mix, and he knows what he needs to do to earn those minutes,” said Redick.

Camp Intensifies: Players Stepping Up

As Training Camp moves into its third day, the Lakers’ competitiveness has only ramped up. Redick has been stressing defense, energy, and discipline, and the players are responding.

Notable Performances:

• Max Christie: Christie continues to impress with his shooting and defense, making a strong case for a significant role in the rotation.
• Austin Reaves: Reaves has been sharp, particularly on the offensive end, where he’s playing with confidence and facilitating the offense alongside LeBron James.
• D’Angelo Russell: Russell has embraced the competitive environment, showing poise as the Lakers’ floor general. His passing and leadership have been on full display during scrimmages.

Looking Ahead: Lakers’ Competitive Edge

The intensity of Day 3 signals the tone for the rest of the Lakers’ camp. With Redick pushing the team toward a defense-first mentality and players like Vincent, Koloko, and Reddish battling for roles, the competition is only going to get fiercer.

The Lakers’ path to the regular season continues, and with each passing day, the pieces are falling into place as Redick molds this roster into a team ready to compete at the highest level.