The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled from three-point range this season, shooting 34.3%, 25th in the NBA.
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In a 15-point loss last night against the Clippers, the Lakers shot an abysmal 16% on three-pointers (6 of 38). With Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton out, Jake LaRavia entered the starting lineup.
Although the fourth-year forward posted a double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds and six assists, he continues to struggle from beyond the arc.
LaRavia was 0-for-4 from deep in what has been an inefficient shooting season. His 30.5% from deep is a career low after averaging 42.3% from beyond the arc last season.
After the game, LaRavia talked about his shooting issues and hoped to get back on track soon. “I know I’m a good shooter, everyone on the staff knows I’m a good shooter, everyone on the team knows I’m a good shooter,” LaRavia said. “At some point, I have to make shots. Obviously, I’ve been in a slump for most of the season, outside of the first stretch of games where I made some. But they’ll fall.”
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For Los Angeles, they will need LaRavia to step up, especially if Luka Doncic is sidelined for an extended period. Even when Los Angeles is completely healthy, 34.3% from deep is not a recipe for success in the modern NBA.
In addition to LaRavia, role players like Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent and Dalton Knecht will be relied on to knock down 3-pointers in support of Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
The Lakers will return to action on Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns.