UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers are in turmoil following a devastating 119-96 Christmas Day loss to the Houston Rockets. This marks their third consecutive defeat and the sixth loss in their last 10 games. Head coach JJ Redick delivered a scathing critique of the team’s effort and professionalism, declaring, “We don’t care enough right now.”
The Lakers’ performance on December 25 was alarmingly poor, raising urgent questions about their commitment as they prepare to face the Sacramento Kings at home on Sunday. Redick warned that Saturday’s practice would be “uncomfortable,” emphasizing the need to address the team’s issues immediately to avoid further decline. “I’m not doing another 53 games like this,” he stated firmly.
The Lakers fell behind early, with the Rockets seizing a 14-point lead in the first quarter and maintaining control throughout the game. Redick pinpointed “effort and execution” as the day’s critical themes, lamenting, “When we haven’t done both of those things, we’re a terrible basketball team.”
In a concerning twist, star player Luka Doncic, who returned from injury, struggled significantly, committing three turnovers within the first two minutes. The Rockets exploited these errors, dominating the boards with a staggering 48-25 rebounding advantage, including 17 offensive rebounds. This loss continues a troubling trend, as all 10 of the Lakers’ losses this season have been by 10 or more points.
Redick previously criticized the team’s overall commitment and hinted at specific players’ lack of familiarity with essential strategies. “It’s a matter of making the choice,” he remarked, indicating a consistent failure among certain players to step up.
Adding to the Lakers’ woes, Austin Reaves exited the game at halftime due to left calf soreness, leading to uncertainty about his condition with an MRI scheduled for Friday. Doncic led the scoring with 25 points and 7 assists, but his six turnovers highlighted the team’s overall disarray.
LeBron James, one of the team’s key figures, managed only 18 points and recorded a dismal plus-minus of -33 during his 34 minutes on the court. Following the game, both James and Rui Hachimura declined to comment, leaving teammates Jake LaRavia and Jarred Vanderbilt to voice their concerns. LaRavia noted a potential “disconnect” within the team, while Vanderbilt stressed the necessity for candid conversations to address the current state of affairs.
“We don’t want this to keep lingering,” Vanderbilt said, highlighting the critical junction the Lakers face in their season. As they gear up for their next challenge, the urgency for improvement is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if the Lakers can turn their fortunes around before it’s too late.
