JJ Redick Sends Clear Message After Lakers Make Unfortunate History in Bulls Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Mar 23, 2025 1:51 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers were the healthiest they’ve been in weeks as they welcomed the Chicago Bulls to Crypto.com Arena on Saturday night. With LeBron James (groin), Rui Hachimura (knee), Austin Reaves (ankle), and Luka Doncic (ankle/knee) all returning from injury, expectations were high for the Lakers to dominate against a 10th-seeded Bulls team.

However, Chicago stunned LA with a 146-115 blowout, tying the most points the Lakers have allowed in a non-overtime home game since conceding 146 to the Denver Nuggets on Nov. 6, 1984 ( via Josh Dubow of the Associated Press ). Coby White led all scorers with 36 points, while Josh Giddey finished with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 17 assists.

Following this franchise-worst defensive performance, head coach JJ Redick didn’t hold back in his postgame remarks.

"That was the worst our defense has looked, frankly, maybe all year," Redick said.

Redick emphasized that the Lakers’ recent success—dating back to January—was built on their defensive intensity and accountability on both an individual and team level.

"Our success this season has been based on our defensive disposition and our ability to defend as a team, and our individual pride on the ball and in doing your job, whatever it may require," he added.

Looking ahead, Redick stressed the importance of tightening up defensively as the team prepares for the final stretch of the regular season and the playoffs.

"That's going to determine our success for the next three weeks, and that's going to determine our success if we are able to secure a postseason berth," he stated.

With the loss, the Lakers fall to 43-27, remaining fourth in the Western Conference standings, now 2.5 games ahead of the surging Golden State Warriors. LA will look to shake off this disappointing defeat as it embarks on a road trip beginning with the Orlando Magic on Monday.

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

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