The Los Angeles Lakers closed the NBA Trade Deadline with an interesting trade deal, sending Gabe Vincent to the Atlanta Hawks for Luke Kennard. The Lakers needed a wing, and Kennard might just help nudge them towards the 2026 NBA Championship.
Of course, after the trade, all eyes are on Kennard to make his debut for the Lakers against the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, February 7.
Is Lakers’ Luka Kennard Going to Make His Debut Against the Warriors?
As mentioned, fans always tune in to watch a player’s first game with a team. For Kennard, the Lakers will face the Warriors next. And according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Kennard is ready to suit up against Golden State.
“Luke Kennard is available to play tonight and make his Lakers debut, the team announced,” McMenamin wrote on Twitter (now X).
Luke Kennard is available to play tonight and make his Lakers debut, the team announced
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 7, 2026
What will be interesting to observe, though, is Kennard’s approach to the team’s defense. Fans are already aware of Kennard’s shooting, aware that a good wing might just benefit the Lakers in the long term. What could turn the game around, though, is Kennard’s excellent three-point shooting. Currently making 49.7% from the three-point line, Kennard has always averaged (44.2% career) a high three-point shooting percentage.
Starting his career with the Detroit Pistons in 2017, Kennard played for the LA Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, and Hawks before joining the Lakers. This season, Kennard is averaging 7.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 53.7% from the field.
That isn’t the only impressive state for Kennard. Known for an overall high-impact game, Kennard reached the impressive 50/40/90 mark with the Hawks this season in just 46 games. One can argue that Kennard can pass up good shots at times, ultimately costing his team a much-needed three points. And since the Lakers need a reliable shooter, Kennard won’t be able to take liberties with his shot.
While a few fans may doubt the Lakers’ decision to add Kennard, Lakers head coach JJ Redick remains confident in their new pick. Speaking to the media after the trade, Redick said, “I’ve known him for about 12 years now, and I think he’s one of the best shooters in the NBA. I’m going to highly encourage him to shoot more and not turn down shots. But I think one of the underrated parts of his game is his ability to move and create second actions and move the basketball.”
According to Redick, Kennard will be a “corner threat” that they’re excited to onboard.
With a 31-19 win-loss record, the Lakers are currently ranked fifth in the Western Conference.
