The Lakers are currently on their first losing streak of the season. While it’s impressive, they went over a quarter of the way through a year before having back-to-back losses, their most recent defeat against the Rockets on Christmas Day proved they have some problems that need fixing.
And no one is more aware and upset about the team’s quality of play than their head coach, JJ Redick.
He crashed out after the Lakers’ blowout loss and made it clear that their next practice will be an uncomfortable
one where all issues will be addressed.
After three straight losses, which were all blowouts in which defensive effort and execution have been noticeably absent, whatever Redick has in store for his team should be accepted without resistance from the players.
So, whether he has them running sprints or Redick’s calling out individuals for their poor play in front of everyone, the Lakers are going to have to take their medicine because they’ve been making everyone else sick with their performances this December.
Luka Dončić is this team’s star player and the accountability has to start with him.
During his media availability, he was on the same page with his head coach, agreeing that change is necessary and that an uncomfortable practice following these losses should be expected.
It’s good to hear that Luka agrees with Redick, hopefully all the other Lakers take the same approach.
No one is expecting LA to suddenly turn into an elite defensive team, but a full effort in all phases of the game is necessary and should be on the team’s list of non-negotiables.
These losses have been ugly, but they provide an opportunity for growth and a chance for the Lakers to respond to these defeats with a better effort.
This could become a turning point for LA. They can choose to be a tough team that fights back, or they can cower, continue stacking losses, and return to a play-in-caliber team.
We’ll see what Redick has in store for them during practice this Saturday and how they respond in their next contest against the Kings on Sunday.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
