The Los Angeles Lakers suffered their third consecutive blowout loss on Christmas Day, falling 119-96 to the Houston Rockets as JJ Redick publicly questioned his team’s commitment level. After the Lakers’ previous loss, Redick blasted the Lakers’ defensive effort.
“We don’t care enough right now,” Redick said after the defeat. “And that’s the part that bothers you a lot. We don’t care enough to do the things that are necessary. We don’t care enough to be a professional.”
The loss dropped the Lakers’ record to 19-14 on the season. All 10 of their defeats have come by double-digit margins. The team looked sluggish throughout the game as Houston dominated on the boards and in transition.
Austin Reaves left the game with a left calf strain and will undergo an MRI on Friday. He had just returned from a three-game absence caused by the same injury. Team sources suggest the Lakers should prepare for a more extended absence this time.
Redick vowed an “uncomfortable” film session and practice for Saturday. The coach emphasized that effort and execution have been inconsistent all season.
“I’m not doing another 53 games like this,” Redick said defiantly.
Luka Doncic has averaged 29.5 points over his last six games but shot just 41.2 percent from the field and 26.3 percent from three-point range. The Lakers have been outscored by 50 points with Doncic on the court during his last five games.
“I don’t know what has to change, but definitely something needs to change,” Doncic said. “Think we (were) blown out the last three games. It definitely looks terrible.”
LeBron James will turn 41 next week and continues adjusting to life in his 23rd NBA season. Multiple players including James, Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura declined to speak with media after the loss.