The Los Angeles Lakers have improved their defensive performance, highlighted by their victories over the Knicks and Timberwolves. The Lakers, who ranked No. 26 in defensive rating (points allowed per 100 possessions) in their first 40 games through Jan. 18, struggled on the perimeter and allowed opponents to score high marks on 3-pointers. Despite this, the team has seen incremental improvements, ranking No. 14 in defense rating since Jan.18 and No. 15 since the All-Star break. Coach JJ Redick is encouraged by the team's progress, stating they aim to be above average and compete against the best in the West.