Lakers’ JJ Redick stresses mindset with season on line

The Lakers are one loss away. Down 3-0 to the Thunder, the margin is gone. The message is simple.

Win today. Then win tomorrow.

That’s what coach JJ Redick told his players after Sunday’s practice, keeping it focused and direct.

“Our first slide in training camp was win the day,” Redick said, per Broderick Turner of the LA Times. “It’s more of a mindset check than anything else.”

History isn’t on their side. Teams holding a 3-0 lead are 161-0 in playoff series. The Lakers aren’t ignoring it. They’re trying to shrink the moment.

Rui Hachimura has done his part. He’s averaging 18.3 points and shooting 57.1 percent from three in the series. The problem hasn’t been scoring. It’s been sustaining it.

“I feel like every game we’re getting closer,” Hachimura said. “But defensively, especially in the third quarter, we slowed down.”

That’s where the Thunder have taken control. Depth. Discipline. Everyone knows their role.

“Basketball is a team sport,” Hachimura said. “Everybody has a role. You can see they understand that.”

The Lakers have leaned on stars. Oklahoma City has leaned on structure.

Redick still believes. He said as much to Deandre Ayton after a rough stretch in Game 3.

“I know how special he is for our group,” Redick said. “I believe in him.”

Belief is what they have left. Now they need wins to match it.