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

One bright spot 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, as the Lakers shot an abysmal 5 of 30 from deep in a 110-103 win over Minnesota .

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

“I’m going to make a request to the league tomorrow that we can play with worn-out basketballs,” Lakers first-year head coach JJ Redick said after the game. “I’m not sure why we’re playing in real games – I’m absolutely serious – I’m not sure why we’re playing in real games with brand new basketballs. Anyone who has ever touched a brand new NBA ball, It feels different than a worn out basketball.”

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

The Lakers shot 56.9% inside the arc and 16.7% from beyond the 3-point line. Minnesota hit 31.7% of 3-pointers compared to 52.2% from inside the arc. Anthony Edwards said in the locker room that if his balls had been given, Minnesota would have won.

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