The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing 119-96 defeat against the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day, marking their third consecutive loss. The team has now dropped six of their last ten games, raising serious concerns about their professionalism and commitment.
After the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick did not hold back in his criticism. “We don’t care enough right now,” Redick stated, emphasizing the need for immediate improvement. He indicated that a crucial practice session scheduled for this weekend would address the team’s lack of effort and execution. “It’s going to be uncomfortable,” Redick warned the players, stressing the importance of tackling the issues head-on before their next game against the Sacramento Kings.
In a game that was largely one-sided, the Rockets took a commanding lead early, never allowing the Lakers to recover. They out-rebounded Los Angeles 48-25, with 17 of those boards coming on the offensive end. Redick pointed to effort and execution as key areas where his team fell short. “When we’ve done both of those things at a high level, we’ve been a good basketball team. When we haven’t, we’re a terrible basketball team,” he remarked.
Despite the return of Luka Doncic, who had been sidelined with a calf injury, the Lakers struggled to find their rhythm. Doncic led the team with 25 points and 7 assists but also recorded a team-high six turnovers early in the game. “I don’t know what has to change, but definitely something needs to change,” Doncic said, acknowledging the team’s dismal performance over the past several games.
The Lakers also faced additional challenges, as key player Austin Reaves left the game at halftime due to left calf soreness. Reaves, who has been dealing with this injury, will undergo an MRI, and his status remains uncertain. The absence of Reaves further complicates the Lakers’ struggles as they attempt to regain momentum.
LeBron James contributed 18 points during the game but experienced his worst plus-minus performance as a Laker, being outscored by 33 points while on the court. Following the game, James, along with Hachimura and Marcus Smart, opted not to speak to the media, leaving the task of addressing the team’s state to role players.
Jake LaRavia acknowledged a sense of disconnect within the team, stating, “It might be a disconnect right now. We just have to be able to reel it back in and get back on the right track.” Jarred Vanderbilt, who had a plus-five rating in his time on the court, echoed the need for open communication among teammates. “Certain stuff just needs to be said and certain stuff needs to be done,” he remarked, calling for critical conversations to prevent the team’s downward spiral from continuing.
As the Lakers prepare for their next challenge against the Kings, the urgency for change within the organization is palpable. With 53 games remaining in the season, Redick is determined to steer the team back on course. The upcoming practice and meetings will be crucial for addressing the issues that have plagued the Lakers in recent weeks.
