The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 3 - Dan Woike joins The Herd, more on the Lakers turnaround this season
Mar 19, 2026
Dan Woike, The Athletic Lakers beat writer who covers the team’s performance and roster moves, breaks down the Lakers' turnaround. He discusses travel grind and role clarity. He highlights LeBron picking his spots and a rare hot shooting stretch. Matchups with Thunder and Spurs, Marcus Smart’s defensive impact, and roster buy-ins also come up.
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Brutal Travel Left Lakers Arriving At Dawn
- Travel fatigue has been severe for the Lakers, with players and staff arriving into Miami early morning after late arena departures.
- Dan Woike received texts saying some players didn't get to their rooms with bags until 5:14 AM local time.
Team Connection Fueled Lakers Hot Streak
- The Lakers' turnaround hinges on team-wide connection and clear role definition rather than one superstar dominance.
- Dan Woike credits Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as primary creators while LeBron James picks spots, boosting overall efficiency and cohesion.
LeBron's New Role Increases Efficiency
- LeBron's adjusted role—selective aggression and efficiency—has materially improved team play during the win streak.
- Woike notes LeBron shooting ~65% in recent games while choosing moments to attack, raising offensive efficiency.