JJ Redick focused on defensive execution and long-term growth after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Dallas Mavericks 124-104 on Thursday at Crypto.com Arena. The coach said halftime adjustments changed the flow after Dallas trimmed the lead late in the second quarter.
“Just challenge the guys to be better defensively. The stuff we talked about before the game and the individual pride on the ball, our low man, our shell principles,” Redick said. “They weren’t sharp in the first half and I thought we went away from it.”
The Lakers allowed momentum swings early, but the third-quarter response reflected improved communication and rotations. “The zone when Thompson was on the floor for the most part in the first half and then did a nice job to start the third and you know, 41 points in the second half,” he said. “I thought we definitely picked it up defensively.”
Redick also evaluated the season from a broader perspective as Los Angeles entered the break among the top teams in the Western Conference. “The micro day-to-day stuff that you fret over and think about all day long is one part of this job,” he said. “The other part is the macro stuff and the big picture stuff.”
Injuries and lineup changes limited continuity, but the coach pointed to the standings as evidence of progress. “Look, if you told me in September that we’d be top five in the West and we’ve had those guys together for 10 games, you take that,” he said. “Certainly doesn’t mean the day-to-day internal pressure you put on yourself is going to go away.”
Energy from LeBron James remained a major theme after the forward posted a historic triple-double in his 23rd NBA season. Redick highlighted preparation habits rather than statistics when discussing the performance.
“He’s done everything we’ve asked of him and everything that should be realistically expected of a guy in his 23rd season,” Redick said. “He spends an inordinate amount of time preparing his body to be able to play at this stage of his career.”
The coach also praised James’ offensive rhythm and decision-making during the opening stretch, when the Lakers established control. “The basketball flow was really good tonight. The shooting, the no hesitation. We ran the flash single early and he hits the three behind the screen just without hesitation.”
Asked about the veteran becoming the oldest player to record a triple-double, Redick emphasized professionalism over milestones. “I don’t take for granted how good he is,” he said. “The more remarkable thing is how much he cares in his 23rd year with all his accomplishments.”
Redick concluded by pointing to consistency as the defining trait behind the veteran’s longevity. “It’s really just the day-to-day professionalism and care factor that he exhibits that is the most remarkable thing,” he said. “He’s got a 23-year prime basically, and there’s different versions of him but that’s what’s remarkable.”
