JJ Redick Admits Lakers' Frustration After Loss to Pistons

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Dec 31, 2025 2:33 AM ET

Things are not good with the Los Angeles Lakers after their 128-106 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday. The most evident problem for the team has been their struggles in protecting the ball. They had 20 turnovers against the Pistons, and Luka Doncic led the team with eight.

Aside from turnovers, coach JJ Redick mentioned that the Lakers struggled with fastbreak points and points in the paint. It has been a frustrating stretch of games for LA, as they've been 1-4 over the past five contests.

LA is now 20-11 following the team's loss against the best team in the Eastern Conference. Redick admitted that the team has been frustrated by their costly mistakes.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ RedickCredit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

“The turnovers, the fastbreak points, points in the paint just killed us tonight,” Redick said.

“I think there’s probably a level of frustration when you’re turning the ball over, and you’re feeling like you’re getting fouled. There’s frustration there, for sure.”

"Building an identity is difficult."

JJ Redick on tonight's loss to the Pistons. pic.twitter.com/X1u52kepb6
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) December 31, 2025

Throughout the year, the Lakers have had trouble protecting the ball. They are 19th in the league in turnovers, averaging 15.3 per game. Defensively, they have not been the best, only blocking 4.1 shots per game. They are the fourth-worst team in terms of protecting the rim.

Redick also expressed his frustration with the Lakers' frequent lineup changes brought on by injuries. He pointed out that the team is still finding its identity because of the lack of stability in its roster.

The Lakers took on the Pistons without their third-best player, Austin Reaves. The undrafted guard is out with a calf injury and is expected to miss at least a month.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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