Leading the league in three-point shooting percentage! Kennard becomes Lakers' biggest surprise, Doncic encourages him to shoot more.

On March 8, Luke Kennard is an excellent acquisition for the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming the efficient bench scoring option the team lacked before the trade deadline. In recent years, most elite shooters have struggled under the spotlight in Los Angeles, but Kennard has not experienced this issue.So far this season, Kennard's three-point shooting percentage is as high as 50.3%, ranking first among all 166 players eligible for NBA statistical rankings. In his 13 games played for the Lakers, his three-point percentage is even higher at 52.5%!

Since joining the Lakers, he has scored double-digit points in 4 games and delivered another impressive performance against the Pacers on Saturday, scoring 15 points. Coach Redick utilizes this veteran guard as an off-ball movement shooter, designing plays to create shooting opportunities for him or placing him in positions where he can make decisions.

Despite the Lakers having numerous stars, as a shooter with a three-point percentage exceeding 50%, Kennard adds a new dimension to the team's offense. After playing 13 games for the Lakers, this 29-year-old player shared how he has found rhythm with the team.

“In the past few games, our ball movement has been getting better and better,” Kennard said. “For me, it's about being ready to shoot when there's an open opportunity; when there isn't, ensuring the offense flows smoothly without stalling. Whether I drive inside to look for better chances or pass outside. Whenever there's an opportunity, go create offensive chances and advantages. So far, I feel I've integrated very well and am excited about our team continuing to move forward and grow together. It's really fun.”

Although Kennard currently leads the league in three-point percentage, his total number of shot attempts is not high. Luka Doncic encouraged him to shoot more after Saturday's victory. Doncic said at that time: “I always tell him, you need to shoot more. Many times I think he could definitely shoot, but he didn't.”

Kennard appreciates the trust from his coach and teammates. “Yes, it feels great, especially coming from a player like him,” Kennard said. “Doncic is one of the top scorers in history, and as his teammate, it really builds confidence. Obviously, he always makes the right choices, attracts a lot of defensive attention on offense, and finds his teammates; his basketball IQ is very high. For me, it's about being ready to shoot when the ball comes to me. This definitely boosts confidence, and I'm looking forward to continuing to partner with him and seeing how far our chemistry can go.”

Kennard can be considered the Lakers' biggest surprise this season. As games progress, Kennard looks increasingly comfortable within the Lakers' system when playing alongside Doncic, Reaves, and James. Over time, hopefully he will increase his shot attempts, and more attempts will lead to even better scoring performances.