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LeBron James refuses to talk about LA Lakers playoff chances after NBA Cup loss, ‘not right…’

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Dec 11, 2025 8:00 AM ET

LeBron James had no time to discuss the LA Lakers’ playoff chances after their bitter loss to the San Antonio Spurs.

The San Antonio Spurs got one of the biggest wins of their season so far, defeating the LA Lakers in a crucial NBA Cup quarterfinal.

The Lakers’ hopes of winning a historic second NBA Cup went up in smoke as they failed to topple a Spurs team without Victor Wembanyama.

Austin Reaves struggled to get going for the Lakers, while LeBron James and Luka Doncic’s numbers weren’t enough to get them the win.

After the game, LeBron James was asked whether this high-stakes loss was a sign of what was to come for the LA Lakers in the playoffs.

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LeBron James doesn’t want to think about LA Lakers in the playoffs yet

LeBron James spoke to reporters after the LA Lakers lost to the San Antonio Spurs. One reporter asked him how the Lakers might fare in the playoffs and whether this loss was an indicator.

James immediately shut down that talk, saying that it was far too early for them or anyone to be thinking about the playoffs.

All LeBron would say is that he feels comfortable about the Lakers’ chances of reaching the playoffs this season.

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“It’s December, and you’re talking about the playoffs? Nah, I can’t do that. That’s not okay. Not my mindset. I can’t think about what we can do in the playoffs in December.

“What I can say is that the habits that we build throughout the regular season, each month, we are in a position to make it to the postseason and be able to get to that point where we have to build it down.

“Talking about what type of damage we can do in the postseason in December, that’s not right for the Basketball Gods.”

LA Lakers must consider making some big trades

The Los Angeles Lakers must treat this loss as a wake-up call, as they just haven’t been able to get things going on the defensive end.

While their offensive talent is among the best in the league, their defense is absolutely shambolic and cannot be trusted in close-game situations.

Bill Simmons suggested the Lakers trade for Herb Jones, given how much the New Orleans Pelicans are struggling this season.

Herb Jones to the Lakers makes too much sense

Who says no?

Lakers recieve: Herb Jones

Pelicans receive: Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber & 2031 first-round pick

Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

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Or maybe the Lakers make the biggest swing possible and go land another superstar. The Lakers have a decent package for Giannis Antetokounmpo, one that gives the Bucks a star to build around.

Whatever they decide, one thing is clear: the Lakers need to make some moves this season, or they will be squandering yet another season of Luka Doncic.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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