UPDATE: In a harsh critique following a devastating 119-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day, Lakers coach JJ Redick slammed his team’s lack of professionalism, stating, “We don’t care enough right now.” This defeat marks the Lakers’ third consecutive loss and their sixth in the last ten games, raising urgent concerns about the team’s commitment.
The Lakers struggled throughout the game, failing to lead at any point and trailing by as much as 14 points in the first quarter. The Rockets dominated, leading by double digits through the entire second half, highlighting a worrying trend for Los Angeles. Redick emphasized the need for immediate change, insisting that the team must address these issues in practice this weekend before their next game against the Sacramento Kings on December 31, 2023.
“Saturday’s practice—it’s going to be uncomfortable,” Redick warned. “I’m not doing another 53 games like this.” He pointed to a lack of effort and execution as critical factors in the team’s performance, stating, “When we’ve done both of those things at a high level, we’ve been a good basketball team; when we haven’t, we’re a terrible basketball team.” The exasperation in Redick’s voice underscored the gravity of the situation.
As the Lakers faced increasing scrutiny, Luka Doncic returned to action after injury but struggled, recording 25 points along with a team-worst six turnovers. Injuries compounded the team’s woes, with Austin Reaves leaving the game due to calf soreness and set to undergo an MRI. “I don’t know what has to change, but definitely something needs to change,” Doncic remarked, reflecting the urgency for a turnaround.
The Lakers’ performance has raised eyebrows, especially with every loss this season coming by ten or more points. Redick’s frustration was palpable, as he questioned the commitment of certain players without naming them. “It’s a matter of making the choice,” he said. “Too often, we have guys that don’t want to make that choice.” This stark acknowledgment of internal issues has left fans and analysts alike wondering about the team’s future.
Meanwhile, LeBron James had a disappointing outing, scoring just 18 points and posting a minus-33 plus-minus rating—the worst in his Lakers career. Following the game, James, along with other key players, declined to speak to the media, leaving teammates Jake LaRavia and Jarred Vanderbilt to address the situation.
“It might be a disconnect right now,” LaRavia said. “We just have to be able to reel it back in and get back on the right track.”
Vanderbilt echoed this sentiment, stating that the team is at a critical juncture. “Ultimately, certain stuff just needs to be said and certain stuff needs to be done,” he said. “We don’t want this to keep lingering.” With the Lakers in a downward spiral, the pressure is mounting for a swift and effective response.
As the Lakers prepare for their next game, all eyes will be on the Saturday practice, where Redick has promised a challenging environment. Fans are urged to stay tuned as the situation develops, with the team needing to rally quickly to avoid further damage to their season.
