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JJ Redick Gets Called Out as Lakers’ Defensive Struggles Expose Major Coaching Flaws
JJ Redick (Image Credits: Imagn)

JJ Redick Gets Called Out as Lakers’ Defensive Struggles Expose Major Coaching Flaws

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports  |  By Afshan Khan  |  Last updated Feb 27, 2026 4:45 PM ET

After two straight losses, the Lakers faced the Phoenix Suns at PHX Arena. As Suns stars Dillon Brooks and Devin Booker were sidelined, many speculated that this would be the game to break the purple and gold’s losing streak, but that was not the case, as the Lakers faced another disappointment. So, who is at fault for these continued setbacks: the head coach, JJ Redick, the starting lineup, or the bench players?

During the recent episode of First Take, former NBA player Kendrick Perkins weighed in on the Lakers’ ongoing struggles and called out Redick for the major problems in the team’s defense.

“JJ got more excuses than a brotha going to jail. It’s time for you to coach. Get the attention of your locker room. When you have one of the worst defenses in the league that’s a reflection of your coach! When it comes to LeBron and the lakers relationship, that is one foot on the grave and the other on a banana peel…. If you think Austin Reaves and Luka can be your two max guys to bring a championship back to LA, you lost your damn mind.” Perkins said.

Luka Doncic scored a game-high 41 points along with eight assists and eight rebounds against the Suns. However, due to the team’s lack of contributions and the ongoing defensive struggles, the Lakers suffered a narrow 110-113 loss. The Lakers’ defensive shortcomings are currently a concern for fans and analysts alike. Recently, Stephen A. Smith called the Lakers’ defense the worst in the league.

JJ Redick Breaks Down What Went Wrong In The Recent Loss


JJ Redick (Image Credits: Imagn)

Despite having standout players like LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers are falling short in securing the wins. In the last two games, the purple and gold had the chance to win but ended up with the same pattern.

In the 109-110 loss against the Orlando Magic, Luka Doncic missed the golden opportunity to nail a wide-open three, but instead, he passed the ball to James, who ultimately missed the shot. Meanwhile, during the recent game against the Suns, Austin Reaves had a chance to tie the game.

With the final seconds left in the game, Reaves received the pass and shot the buzzer-beating three, but it bounced back off the rim, resulting in another narrow loss. During the recent post-game press conference, JJ Redick weighed in on what went wrong against the Suns.

“We talk about this as a staff, like our losses are louder than other teams. Because we’re the Lakers, and because of the way we lose… We made mistakes. I make mistakes… That’s the game,” Redick said.

The team’s losing streak is building pressure, as the Lakers currently hold the sixth spot in the Western Conference standings with a 34-24 record. Fans are eager to see what adjustment Redick would make to turn things around in the struggling situation. Meanwhile, the Lakers are gearing up for their next game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center.

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

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