Luke Kennard joined the Los Angeles Lakers following the NBA trade deadline two weeks ago, but Thursday marked his first practice session with the team. The Lakers’ busy game schedule and the All-Star break had previously prevented Kennard from practicing with the squad. Despite limited time on the court, Luka Doncic has already taken notice of Kennard’s assured shooting and overall presence during games and now practice.
Doncic Notes Kennard’s Early Impact and Shooting Confidence
Although Doncic has yet to play alongside Kennard due to a hamstring injury sustained in the Lakers’ win over the Philadelphia 76ers on February 5 — the game just before Kennard’s debut — he praised the newcomer’s confidence. After attending practice on Thursday, Doncic highlighted Kennard’s positive mindset, especially when taking three-point shots.
He was great in practice today. He’s been great just finding himself,
Doncic said.
He’s only played four games with us so obviously he’s not gonna fit in right, right away, obviously he needs time. But in practice, whenever he shoots a three, he always thinks it’s gonna go in. It’s great to see that.
– Luka Doncic, Lakers Player
Kennard’s Early Lakers Performances Show Promising Contribution
In his Lakers debut on February 7 against the Golden State Warriors, Kennard scored 10 points, grabbed two rebounds, dished out two assists, and recorded one steal across 26 minutes. He converted four of seven field goals and hit two of four from beyond the arc, while playing an important role in the team’s late-game lineup during crunch time.
Over four games, including one start, Kennard is averaging roughly 24 minutes per contest with 10.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. He’s been highly efficient, shooting 62.5 percent from the field and 45.5 percent on three-pointers with the Lakers. Combining that with his earlier season stats from the Atlanta Hawks, Kennard leads the NBA with a 49.4 percent three-point shooting average.
Coach JJ Redick Appreciates Team Practice and Bonding Efforts
Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized that having Kennard and the rest of the team together at practice is valuable for refining their coordination and chemistry on the court. He also praised Kennard’s contribution during the team’s PechaKucha bonding session—a Japanese storytelling format Redick introduced to enhance team connection.
I just think that every day you’re with the group, it’s more comfortable,
Redick remarked.
He did his PechaKucha this morning, did a nice job. He had a terrific practice today. It was good to have Luka and AR with us as well.
– JJ Redick, Lakers Head Coach
Lakers Prepare to Face Clippers After All-Star Break
With the All-Star break behind them, the Lakers will return to action hosting the LA Clippers on Friday. The integration of Luke Kennard into practice and game lineups marks an important step as the team aims to strengthen its chances in the remainder of the season. His shooting reliability and growing rapport with teammates like Luka Doncic could prove critical as the Lakers push forward.
Hammer screen for Luke Kennard.
Double figures now and 2-4 from three. pic.twitter.com/JHr6o1bMuC
— Raj C. (@RajChipalu) February 8, 2026
