Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed his team’s defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder (15-4) in the NBA Cup, noting improvements despite the loss.
Redick highlighted the team’s defensive progress, saying, “That was as connected as our group has been on that end of the floor since the first game of the season.”
The Lakers (11-8) were eliminated from the NBA Cup after falling 101-93 to Oklahoma City in Friday night’s game. Despite a late rally, the Lakers couldn’t overcome Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 36-point performance, including 15 points in the crucial fourth quarter.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s clutch play included a three-pointer with 1:35 remaining, pushing the Thunder’s lead to 95-91 after the Lakers had made a push. Jalen Williams added 19 points, and Isaiah Hartenstein contributed a double-double with 11 points and 18 rebounds, including a season-high 15 offensive boards for Oklahoma City.
Dalton Knecht led the Lakers with 20 points, hitting five 3-pointers, while D’Angelo Russell added 17 points off the bench. Anthony Davis recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds, while LeBron James contributed 12 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.
Though the Lakers were within four points with 22.4 seconds left, a critical turnover by Austin Reaves allowed Williams to steal the ball and score a dunk, sealing the Thunder’s victory.
Redick acknowledged his team’s effort but noted key mistakes, saying, “There were half-dozen to dozen plays that just shot us in the foot.” Despite the loss, Redick was encouraged by his team’s defense, stating, “We played well enough and hard enough to win against the best team in the West.”
The Thunder’s defense forced 17 Lakers turnovers, including four in the fourth quarter. Oklahoma City also matched their season-high with 15 offensive rebounds, creating additional opportunities.
The Lakers’ shooting struggles from beyond the arc hurt their chances, as they hit just 28.9% (11-of-38) of their 3-point attempts. In contrast, the Thunder connected on 13 of 40 shots from deep, including four triples from Luguentz Dort, who finished with 14 points.
Oklahoma City’s defensive pressure and offensive rebounding played a significant role in the victory. The Thunder capitalized on 21 points off Lakers turnovers, further limiting Los Angeles’ chances.
With the win, Oklahoma City is tied with Phoenix and San Antonio at 2-1 in Group B, while the Lakers drop to 2-2. The final group games on Tuesday will determine if the Thunder advance to the NBA Cup knockout stage.
