UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers face critical challenges following a disheartening 132-108 loss to the Phoenix Suns last night. Coach JJ Redick delivered a blunt assessment of his squad’s performance, stating they lack players who consistently display the effort and physicality necessary to compete at a high level.
The Lakers suffered their third defeat in five games, marking their ninth loss of the season, with all losses coming by double digits. Despite holding a 19-9 record and currently ranking fourth in the Western Conference, their defensive struggles are alarming, placing them at 24th in the NBA for defensive rating this season, down from 17th last year.
During last night’s game, the Lakers were outscored 45-29 in the third quarter, allowing the Suns to shoot an astonishing 72.7% from the field and 83.3% on 3-pointers during that period. Redick emphasized the importance of effort, stating, “It comes down to … just making the choice,” highlighting the need for players to commit to defensive principles.
Returning from injury, Austin Reaves contributed 17 points off the bench, while LeBron James led the team with 23 points in 26 minutes. However, the Lakers were missing key players Luka Doncic (calf contusion) and Rui Hachimura (groin soreness), both considered day-to-day ahead of their Christmas Day matchup against the Houston Rockets.
Health has been a significant hurdle for the Lakers this season, with James notably missing the first 14 games due to sciatica. Yet, both he and Reaves stressed the necessity for improved team performance, regardless of the roster. “It has to be five guys on a string,” James reiterated, a statement he has made multiple times this season.
Former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart did not hold back, stating, “We doing s—,” and expressing frustration with the team’s lack of urgency and defensive cohesion. He underscored the need for immediate improvement, especially with the trade deadline approaching in six weeks.
With the Lakers struggling defensively, fans are left wondering how the team will address these pressing issues in time to salvage their season. The urgency is palpable as the Lakers prepare for their next game, needing to rally together and correct their course before it is too late.
As the team heads into a crucial stretch, all eyes will be on their performance against Houston on December 26, 2023. The question remains: can the Lakers reclaim their defensive identity and rise to the challenge?
