Adversity is inevitable. It's as true in the NBA as it is in life—no matter how hard we try to fight it. In the case of the Los Angeles Lakers, it's been as tumultuous a time as any in recent memory, as the Mark Williams trade falling through was soon followed by injuries to Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves.
Despite the hurdles that have been placed in their way, the Lakers have found a way to continue winning at an NBA-leading level—and it's all because of their defense.
Great teams show their true colors when the chips are down and there doesn't appear to be a way around what's in front of them. Rather than wilting under the shadow said obstacle casts, the best find a way to run through it by leaning on an identity that goes beyond the assembly of talent.
As has been the case since the middle of January, Los Angeles has found its way through by committing to defense as the first priority.
Since Jan. 15, the Lakers are an NBA-best 18-4. During that time, JJ Redick's group has produced the No. 1 defensive rating in the Association, allowing a mere 107.5 points per 100 possessions—1.6 fewer than any other team.
Since Hachimura and Reaves' untimely injuries, the Lakers have been revealed as the defensive juggernaut they appeared to be.
Lakers continue to dominate on defense without Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves
Hachimura suffered a left knee strain that has since been diagnosed as tendinopathy on Feb. 27 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. To make matters worse, he played just 18 minutes in what was the beginning of a stretch of three games in four days.
As if that weren't enough, Reaves went down with a right calf injury just one day later—an ailment he endured after playing just nine minutes.
Despite the injuries, the Lakers steeled their resolve and prevailed in all three games. Even more impressive is the fact that they allowed just 102 points in each of those outings—all of which were played against postseason-caliber teams.
Los Angeles defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 111-102, and took down the LA Clippers in 108-102 and 106-102 battles.
As a result, the Lakers extended their streak to six consecutive games in which opponents have failed to score more than 102 points against them. It's a remarkable feat under any circumstances, let alone when two starters go down with injuries.
It's even more impressive when one considers the fact that Los Angeles has spent over a month without an ideal answer at center.
After facing those harsh reality checks, the Lakers responded by doubling down on what they could control. They've swarmed the ball along the perimeter, made strong rotations, and played with an effort level that simply can't be questioned.
It may not be the exact roster the Lakers expected to have at this stage of the season, but even with injuries and a failed trade, the defense is certifiably elite.