Luke Kennard said on April 24 that he is not surprised by his increased responsibilities and performance for the Los Angeles Lakers, who currently hold a 2-0 series lead over the Houston Rockets in the playoffs. With key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sidelined, Kennard has become a consistent source of offense for the team.
Kennard addressed his expanded role after practice, saying, “Yeah, but at the same time not necessarily. I know what I’ve been capable of as a player. Again, it’s not me trying to force anything or do anything totally different or out of my norm. I think I’ve been in positions like this before.” He added that while he has previously stepped up when teammates were out, this stretch has required him to maintain that level for a longer period.
He continued: “Not for this long or amount of time, or period in a row but I’ve been in positions where on some teams some guys have been out and I’ve been asked to play a little bit more of a role and have the ball in my hands more. So I wouldn’t say I’m uncomfortable doing it. I think leading into the playoffs I developed a rhythm there in those last few regular season games that gave me confidence going into it.” Kennard emphasized playing within himself: “Again, it’s just not trying to do anything out of my norm or out of control but just playing within the flow of the game. Using that basketball IQ that I have, just trying to make the most of it.”
Head coach JJ Redick has given Kennard more freedom with playmaking duties during this period without Doncic and Reaves. This approach has helped keep Los Angeles’ offense effective against Houston’s defense.
Jaxson Hayes also commented on Kennard’s impact since joining at the trade deadline and noted their shared Ohio roots. Hayes said he grew up watching Kennard play and is pleased with his current success as both players now contribute significantly to the Lakers rotation.
As Los Angeles looks ahead to continue its playoff run against Houston, Kennard said belief within the team remains strong.
