Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick reflected on his team’s 131-119 loss to the Utah Jazz, pointing to defensive lapses and a lack of urgency. The Lakers had beaten Utah just two days earlier but struggled to replicate that performance on the road.
“Our guys, the spirit and all that stuff has been great. I thought we were locked in,” Redick said postgame. “The more human nature element is playing the same team twice in a row and feeling like it might be easy because we just beat them and we’re 3-0 against them.”
Redick emphasized that preparation was not the issue but acknowledged that his team momentarily lost sight of what was needed to secure a win. He pointed out the Lakers’ defensive struggles early on, particularly against Lauri Markkanen.
“I thought defensively to start the game it was just like Markkanen could just move wherever he wanted to move,” Redick said. “We weren’t physical, we didn’t talk… You give a team confidence, you let them be comfortable and this is what happens.”
Markkanen capitalized on the Lakers’ lack of defensive intensity, scoring 32 points while registering a season-high three steals. Jordan Clarkson added 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Keyonte George provided 20 points and 10 assists off the bench.
The Jazz, who entered the game on a three-game losing streak, took control in the second quarter with a 19-6 run. Walker Kessler played a crucial role, throwing down back-to-back alley-oop dunks and finishing with 16 points, eight rebounds, and six blocks.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 18 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, while Rui Hachimura scored a team-high 19 points. Luka Doncic added 16, and Austin Reaves contributed 15 points and 11 assists.
The Lakers made a push early in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to five after consecutive three-pointers from James and Reaves. Utah responded with a 22-2 run that put the game out of reach, with Clarkson leading the charge.
Los Angeles struggled offensively during that stretch, making just one field goal in five minutes. Hachimura broke the drought with a three-pointer, but the Jazz maintained control the rest of the way.
Redick acknowledged the impact of injuries and fatigue on his team heading into the All-Star break. “I think the biggest thing is getting our key guys healthy,” he said. “Bron has put in a lot, AR put in a lot. Those guys need a break.”
The first-year head coach also highlighted Luka Doncic’s conditioning as he works his way back after a six-week absence. Additionally, he noted the importance of getting Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent back in the lineup.
Despite the loss, rookie Bronny James had a career-high nine points in the fourth quarter, providing a late spark off the bench. However, the Lakers were unable to slow down Utah’s efficient offense, which shot 52.3% from the field and made 15 three-pointers.
The Jazz also won the rebounding battle 48-45 and outscored Los Angeles 40-30 in the third quarter. Kessler’s defensive presence was a key factor, as he recorded five blocks before halftime and finished with a season-high six.
With the loss, the Lakers dropped to 32-20 heading into the All-Star break. Utah improved to 13-40 after snapping its losing streak.
