Lakers coach JJ Redick says team must get back to basics originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick was frustrated with his team after the Lakers’ 119-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day.
Advertisement
But Redick had a different tone after Saturday’s practice. He said the Lakers had a day of “recalibration and reconnection.”
“I really believe in just getting back to the basics and understanding the needs of a team,” Redick said. “What can seem very simple up there is not very simple once you get in real time in live action.”
The Lakers’ head man lamented his team’s defensive effort after recent losses to the Rockets and Phoenix Suns. Redick believes the Lakers must lock in on the defensive end.
“It’s not going to happen in a day, but we’ve got to get back to building our defensive fundamentals,” he said.
Advertisement
More: Lakers coach JJ Redick shreds team after Rockets loss
Redick and his staff spent Saturday’s staff meeting reflecting on how they can adjust their message to fit their roster. He said the Lakers have responded well.
“I’m always going to look in the mirror first,” he said. “It’s easy as a player or coach to say it’s this guy’s fault, or we’re not doing this because of X, Y and Z. We had a great meeting as a staff this morning.”
Questions remain about LA’s ability to be a true contender in the Western Conference. GM Rob Pelinka continues to search the trade market for immediate upgrades.
Advertisement
The Lakers (19-10) have lost three straight games and are fourth in the Western Conference. Los Angeles will look to snap its skid Sunday against the Sacramento Kings.
