Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers · Locked On Podcast Network, Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

Luke Kennard Is Making a Big Impact... Can He Be a Difference Maker in the Postseason?

March 2, 2026·20 min·1 clip

Luke Kennard is shooting 48% from three and 61% from the field, defying the Lakers' shooter curse.

This episode analyzes Luke Kennard's performance since joining the Los Angeles Lakers and his potential role in the playoffs. Hosts Brian Kamenetsky and Andy Kamenetsky, veteran Lakers reporters with nearly two decades of combined experience at ESPN and The Athletic, examine the trade. They note the Lakers acquired Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline for Gabe Vincent's expiring contract. Kennard is averaging over 10 points per game off the bench and shooting 48% from three-point range. His effective field goal and true shooting percentages are the highest among any player in the Lakers' rotation. The hosts highlight his 62.5% two-point field goal percentage and his ability to score inside the arc, not just from deep. Kennard's offensive versatility includes moving well without the ball, driving to the hoop, and making quick passes, like his eight combined assists in recent games against the Warriors and Kings. His skill set is contrasted with Gabe Vincent, who was described as reluctant to shoot inside the arc. Defensive limitations are acknowledged, as better teams have targeted Kennard, which could be a playoff concern. The discussion speculates on his closing lineup viability, noting players like Rui Hachimura and Jaxson Hayes may be ahead of him for defensive reasons. A significant portion considers whether the Lakers should re-sign Kennard in the offseason, as his $11 million expiring contract aligns with potential team needs. The argument is made that retaining a high-level shooter who complements Luka Dončić's offense could be more valuable than preserving maximum cap space. An interesting insight is that Kennard's defensive rebound rate is higher than LeBron James's, surprising for a player known primarily as a shooter. The hosts joke about the "basketball gods" historically denying the Lakers reliable shooters, making Kennard's performance notable. They describe him as the player the Lakers hoped Dalton Knecht would be, offering more athleticism and off-ball movement. The tone is analytical and conversational, blending statistical breakdowns with observational humor about player comparisons and team fit. Lakers fans seeking a detailed breakdown of a recent roster addition and its strategic implications would enjoy this episode. Listeners looking for broad NBA news or narratives unrelated to specific Lakers role players might find it too niche.

As heard by us

A practical Lakers fit check that treats Kennard as more than a spot-up shooter.

This Lakers discussion treats Luke Kennard as more than a spot-up shooter and keeps the focus on what he can actually add on offense. It tracks how his role has settled across his 10 games in Los Angeles, how he might fit next to Luka Doncic, and why the Lakers may want to keep…

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You want to know whether Luke Kennard is making a real offensive impact for the Lakers.

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