Mon Dec 29 04:20:00 UTC 2025: Lakers Hold “Uncomfortable” Meeting After Rockets Loss, Reaves Out with Injury
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – Following a disappointing Christmas Day loss to the Houston Rockets, the Los Angeles Lakers held a lengthy practice and what coach JJ Redick described as an “uncomfortable” meeting on Saturday. The team is currently mired in a three-game losing streak and has dropped six of their last ten contests. Making matters worse, guard Austin Reaves has been diagnosed with a pulled calf and will be sidelined for approximately four weeks.
Redick, in his second season as Lakers coach, emphasized the need for accountability and a recalibration of team goals. He told reporters that the meeting was a mix of frank discussion and listening to the players’ needs. “The truth is uncomfortable,” Redick said, indicating that nothing was off the table.
Forward Rui Hachimura echoed the sentiment, stating that the team, from players to coaches, needs to “tighten up.” He admitted the team may have “relaxed” after a strong start to the season and stopped doing what they were supposed to do. Notably, LeBron James and Marcus Smart declined to speak to the media for the second consecutive day.
Redick outlined three key areas of focus moving forward: defensive clarity, role clarity, and offensive organization. He noted an increase in “random possessions” on offense since James’ return from injury. Center Deandre Ayton vowed to be a more vocal leader on defense, emphasizing the need for consistent effort and adherence to defensive principles. Ayton acknowledged the team lacked focus in the loss to the Rockets, particularly on rebounding.
Hachimura said he needs to focus on bringing more energy and physicality to the court. The Lakers will look to turn things around as they host the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, the first of four consecutive home games.
First Piper 