JJ Redick was shocked that Wolves and Lakers had to play with new basketballs

One positive from the Timberwolves’ season-opening loss to the Lakers was that they will likely have the best 3-point defense in the NBA for a while, thanks to the Lakers shooting a woeful 5-of-30 from deep in their 110-103 victory over Minnesota.

Overall, the Lakers shot 44.2% from the field, while the Timberwolves shot a miserable 41.2%. Were the guys rusty or a little tense on opening night? Maybe it was just the basketballs…

“I’m going to submit a request to the league tomorrow so we can play with used basketballs,” Lakers first-year coach JJ Redick said after the game. “I don’t know why we’re playing real games – I’m serious – I don’t know why we’re playing real games with new basketballs. Anyone who’s ever touched a new NBA ball, it’s a different feel and feel than a ball. used basketball.”

It’s impossible to say for sure whether the ball impacted every player, but there were some obvious off nights with the rock for players who are normally top shooters. Mike Conley was 1-of-7 overall and 0-of-5 from 3-point range. Donte DiVincenzo made just 3 of 11 shots and was 2 of 8 from 3.

The Lakers shot 56.9% from inside the arc and 16.7% from beyond the 3-point line. Minnesota made 31.7% of its 3-point shots compared to 52.2% from inside the arc. Anthony Edwards said in the locker room that if Minnesota had made their shots, they would have won.

“I didn’t realize it until the timeout,” Redick continued. “There was a long rebound, and I grabbed it and thought, ‘What? Why are we playing with this ball? Give the guys the opportunity to pick a good basketball. You think I’m kidding? I’m being neurotic.”