Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick delivered a harsh critique of his team’s defensive effort following a 132-108 blowout loss to the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, asserting that consistent intensity is “a choice” the players must make. This defeat underscored ongoing struggles for the Lakers, who have now lost consecutive games for the first time this season despite holding a 19-9 record and fourth place in the Western Conference.
In a post-game interview, Redick pointed to the third quarter as particularly telling, where the Suns outscored the Lakers 45-29 and shot 72.7% from the field, including 83.3% on three-pointers. “We practice this stuff enough,” Redick said. “We review this stuff enough. We show film on this stuff enough that to me, it comes down to just making the choice. It’s making the choice.” The Lakers’ defensive rating has fallen to 24th in the NBA this season, a significant drop from 17th last year, reflecting a broader regression.
The game highlighted systemic defensive issues, with the Suns shooting 59% from the field overall, led by Devin Booker’s 21 points and Dillon Brooks’ 25 points. Phoenix exploited the Lakers’ lack of help defense and urgency, as noted by Redick and players. Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, was even blunter, stating, “We’re being real s—ty right now, and it’s showing. There’s no help, there’s no resistance, there’s no urgency.”
Injuries compounded the Lakers’ challenges, with Luka Doncic sidelined due to a left calf contusion and Rui Hachimura out with right groin soreness, both considered day-to-day. Austin Reaves returned from a three-game absence because of a strained left calf, scoring 17 points off the bench, but his performance could not mask the defensive collapse. LeBron James led the team with 23 points and six assists, emphasizing the need for collective effort: “It has to be five guys on a string.”
Reaves’ return marked a shift, as he came off the bench for the first time in two seasons to manage his workload, though he admitted it felt “weird.” The Lakers also lost center Jaxson Hayes to left ankle soreness during the game, adding to their injury woes. Despite these setbacks, players acknowledged that health cannot excuse the poor defensive displays.
The loss raises concerns as the Lakers prepare for a high-profile Christmas Day matchup against the Houston Rockets. With the trade deadline about six weeks away, pressure mounts for the team to show defensive improvement or face potential roster changes. Redick’s comments signal a critical moment for the Lakers to reassess their approach and reinvigorate their championship aspirations.
Looking ahead, the Lakers must address their defensive consistency to avoid further blowout losses and maintain their position in the competitive West. The narrative of effort as a choice, echoed by players, will likely define their season’s trajectory, starting with the immediate challenge against the Rockets.
