JJ Redick Explains Why Bucks Easily Beat Lakers
JJ Redick Explains Why Bucks Easily Beat Lakers
JJ Redick’s tenure as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers has hit a rough patch. The team suffered a 126-106 blowout loss to the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum, extending their losing streak to three games. This defeat dropped their record to 40-24 for the season.
The Bucks dominated the contest, particularly in the third quarter when they pulled away decisively. Milwaukee’s offensive efficiency proved overwhelming, as they shot 47.7% from the field and an impressive 42.5% from three-point range. They also capitalized at the free-throw line, making 27 of 33 attempts.
Defensively, this was the Lakers’ worst performance since the All-Star break. It marked the first time they’ve allowed more than 115 points since their February 12th loss to the Utah Jazz.
In his postgame comments, Redick identified execution as the primary issue. “We didn’t execute at a high level,” he explained, emphasizing that effort alone isn’t sufficient when missing key players. He specifically noted that while the team played hard, they didn’t play smart defensively.
“And frankly, when you’re missing guys you have to play hard but you also have to execute,” Redick continued. “Play hard, play smart, the favorite slogan of Billy Hicks at Cape Spring High School. Play hard and play smart; you gotta do both. And we played hard. I don’t think we played smart, defensively.”
JJ: “We didn’t execute at a high level. When you’re missing guys, you have to play hard, but you also have to execute.” pic.twitter.com/Vw57oDxT8q
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) March 14, 2025
The Lakers’ coaching staff has faced significant challenges due to injuries, forcing Redick to utilize lineups that have had minimal practice time together. These personnel issues have contributed to their recent defensive lapses and offensive inconsistency.
Key defensive statistics from the Bucks loss:
- Opponent field goal percentage: 47.7%
- Opponent three-point percentage: 42.5%
- Free throws allowed: 33 attempts (27 made)
The road ahead doesn’t get any easier for the Lakers. Their next challenge comes against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Interestingly, Redick’s squad did successfully limit Jokic to just 12 points in their previous meeting on February 22nd.
The Lakers will need to recapture that defensive strategy to avoid extending their losing streak to four games. Redick’s ability to adjust despite the injury situation will be crucial for the team’s immediate future.
With multiple players sidelined, the coach faces the difficult task of maintaining competitive play while working with constantly changing lineups. His experience as a former player might prove valuable in helping the team navigate this challenging stretch of the season.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
