UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a devastating 132-108 defeat against the Phoenix Suns on December 19, 2023, marking their third loss in five games. Following the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick delivered a blunt assessment of his team’s lack of effort and defensive intensity, stating, “No,” when asked if the team has players capable of consistent physical play.
The Lakers, currently sitting at 19-9 and ranked No. 4 in the Western Conference, are facing mounting pressure as their defense ranks 24th in the league. This alarming trend is a significant drop from last season, when they finished 17th. The team’s struggles were glaring during the third quarter in Phoenix, where they were outscored 45-29 and allowed the Suns to shoot an astonishing 72.7% from the field.
Redick emphasized the need for players to make conscious choices to improve their defense, stating, “It comes down to making the choice.” He urged his team to consistently give maximum effort. “There are shortcuts you can take, or you can do the hard thing… It gives you a chance to win.”
In a notable absence, star player Luka Doncic sat out due to a calf contusion, and Rui Hachimura missed the game with groin soreness. Both players are listed as day-to-day ahead of the upcoming Christmas Day matchup against the Houston Rockets. Despite these challenges, LeBron James led the Lakers with 23 points and six assists in just 26 minutes of play.
Teammate Austin Reaves made a return from a three-game absence, contributing 17 points off the bench. However, both players echoed the sentiment that the Lakers must improve their performance regardless of who is on the court. James remarked, “It has to be five guys on a string,” emphasizing teamwork and communication.
Adding to the urgency, Marcus Smart, who joined the Lakers to enhance their defensive capabilities, did not hold back in his critique. “We doing s—,” Smart stated bluntly. “Every team goes through it trying to figure it out… there’s really no defense, no scheme we can do when we’re giving up offensive rebounds in crucial moments.”
With the trade deadline looming in just six weeks, the Lakers face critical decisions about their roster composition if they cannot rectify their defensive woes. The call for immediate improvement is clear, as the team cannot afford to continue down this path of poor performance.
As the Lakers prepare for their next game, all eyes will be on whether they can reclaim their defensive prowess and make the necessary adjustments before it’s too late. The urgency for change is palpable, and the upcoming Christmas matchup could serve as a pivotal moment for the team.
