Lakers’ Redick Declares Team’s Defense ‘A Choice’ After Loss

UPDATE: In a stunning admission following a 132-108 defeat to the Phoenix Suns on December 12, 2023, Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick declared that his team’s defensive struggles stem from a lack of choice and commitment. This loss marks the Lakers’ third defeat in their last five games and the ninth overall this season, all by double digits.

After a disastrous third quarter where the Lakers were outscored 45-29 and allowed the Suns to shoot a staggering 72.7% from the field, Redick faced a pointed question: Does the team have enough players willing to give consistent effort? “No,” he bluntly responded, emphasizing the need for a commitment to defensive principles.

Currently, the Lakers stand at 19-9 and sit at No. 4 in the Western Conference, but with a concerning cumulative point differential of just plus-8 through 28 games, fans are increasingly worried. After a promising finish last season, where they ranked 17th in defensive rating, the Lakers have slid to 24th this season.

Redick underscored the importance of effort, stating, “It comes down to … just making the choice.” He stressed that players must consistently make the right decisions to have a chance to win games. LeBron James, who led the Lakers with 23 points and six assists, echoed this sentiment, insisting that “it has to be five guys on a string.”

Despite the return of Austin Reaves, who scored 17 points off the bench, the Lakers were missing key starters, including Luka Doncic, who is day-to-day with a left calf contusion, and Rui Hachimura, sidelined with right groin soreness. Health issues have plagued the Lakers all season, with James missing the first 14 games due to sciatica.

Former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, recently signed to bolster the defense, was equally blunt about the team’s performance. “We doing s—,” he stated. “Every team goes through it trying to figure it out. You just pray that it happens early and we can fix it before it’s too late.” He highlighted the lack of urgency and resistance, calling for immediate improvement.

With the trade deadline just six weeks away, the Lakers face increasing pressure to enhance their defensive performance. If the current roster does not show signs of improvement, significant changes could be on the horizon. Fans are left wondering if Redick and his staff can inspire the necessary change in the coming games.

The Lakers will look to regroup as they prepare for a crucial Christmas Day matchup against the Houston Rockets. With health issues and defensive choices weighing heavily on their performance, all eyes will be on Los Angeles to see if they can turn their season around.