Lakers Face Urgent Defensive Crisis After 132-108 Loss to Suns

UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers are in turmoil after suffering a staggering 132-108 defeat to the Phoenix Suns on December 19, 2023. Head coach JJ Redick delivered a blunt assessment of his team’s effort and defensive performance, stating, “No,” when asked if they have enough players willing to compete at the level required.

This loss marks L.A.’s third in their last five games, with a troubling pattern emerging as each defeat has come by double-digit margins. Despite holding a record of 19-9 and sitting at No. 4 in the Western Conference, the Lakers’ defensive struggles have them ranked 24th in the league. This is a sharp decline from last season’s 17th place finish.

During a disastrous third quarter, the Lakers were outscored 45-29 and allowed the Suns to shoot an astonishing 72.7% from the field, including 83.3% on three-pointers. Redick stressed the critical need for players to make the right choices on defense, stating, “It’s making the choice. There are shortcuts you can take or you can do the hard thing…”

In a game where LeBron James led with 23 points and 6 assists in just 26 minutes, the Lakers were missing two key players: Luka Doncic (calf contusion) and Rui Hachimura (groin soreness). Both are listed as day-to-day ahead of their Christmas Day showdown against the Houston Rockets.

Health challenges have plagued the Lakers this season, with James missing the first 14 games due to sciatica. However, both James and teammate Austin Reaves, who returned to score 17 points off the bench, emphasized the need for improved teamwork. “It has to be five guys on a string,” said James, echoing his call for cohesive play.

Marcus Smart, the Lakers’ offseason addition aimed at bolstering defense, did not mince words in his critique. “We doing s—. We’re being real s—ty right now,” he admitted. Smart pointed out the lack of urgency and resistance in crucial moments, urging his teammates to step up before it’s too late.

With the NBA trade deadline looming in just six weeks, the Lakers may need to reassess their roster if they fail to show signs of defensive improvement. The urgency is palpable as every game becomes crucial in determining their path moving forward.

The Lakers must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next challenge against the Rockets. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Redick can rally his squad and reignite the Lakers’ defensive tenacity.