JJ Redick, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, didn’t hold back after his team’s crushing 108-139 defeat to the Chicago Bulls on Saturday (22nd). The Lakers, playing at home, allowed a staggering 146 points in one of their worst defensive performances of the season—despite the return of LeBron James from a groin injury.
“The effort and mindset just weren’t there,” Redick fumed post-game. “Maybe we assumed having everyone back would automatically fix things, but basketball doesn’t work like that. This was arguably our worst defensive display in months—maybe all year.”
From Hot Streak to Struggles
The Lakers had been on a roll, winning 18 of their last 20 games after the arrival of Luka Dončić. But injuries—including LeBron’s absence—and a brutal schedule (six games in eight days against powerhouses like the Bucks, Nuggets, and Celtics) derailed momentum. Now, with James back, fans hope the team can rediscover their winning form.
Playoffs Hanging in the Balance
Despite the setback, the Lakers remain 4th in the competitive Western Conference (43 wins in 70 games). But the race is tight—they’re just three games ahead of the 7th-placed LA Clippers, leaving little room for error.
Can the Lakers tighten their defence and secure a strong playoff push? Or will inconsistency cost them?
