The Los Angeles Lakers exited the NBA Cup on Wednesday night, and head coach JJ Redick used his postgame remarks to outline the shortcomings that led to a 132-119 defeat against the San Antonio Spurs at crypto.com Arena.
Redick emphasized that containing the ball remains the team’s biggest issue, saying, “being able to contain the basketball is probably the most difficult thing for our team right now.” He noted that the club needs improvement “in six or seven different areas,” pointing to problems with shifts, winning on the margins, and end-of-quarter execution.
The Lakers fell behind after San Antonio produced a 17-2 surge in the second quarter. Stephon Castle and Harrison Barnes capitalized on Los Angeles’ perimeter coverage, which has been a season-long concern.
Castle delivered 30 points with 10 rebounds and six assists in just his second game back from a hip injury. De’Aaron Fox added 20 points, and San Antonio’s depth supported the backcourt by controlling pace and limiting transition opportunities.
Redick remarked that the same vulnerabilities continue to surface, saying the team has “consistently got exposed at the same things.” He highlighted that Los Angeles could not create turnovers or secure extra possessions on the glass, problems that grow when opponents shoot efficiently.
The bench rotation also came under scrutiny. Redick pointed out that several reserves had limited shot attempts, noting, “Jake played eight minutes. Gabe got one shot… Rui included, you know, tonight getting four shots.”
Marcus Smart provided a boost with a season-best 26 points and eight three-pointers. Redick acknowledged Smart’s defensive effort and energy, calling his presence impactful despite “a couple… rush possessions offensively.”
Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 35 points, while LeBron James finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists. Austin Reaves contributed 15 points after weeks of heavy offensive responsibility, with Redick stating, “the reality is the guy’s carried us for six weeks.”
San Antonio maintained control for most of the final three quarters and matched Los Angeles in the standings at 17-7. The Spurs did this despite Victor Wembanyama missing his 12th consecutive contest with a calf injury, though he traveled with the team.
The Lakers, winners of the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023, had swept group play before meeting San Antonio. The Spurs will now face Oklahoma City in Saturday’s semifinal matchup in Las Vegas.
