Lakers head coach JJ Redick lauded Luka Doncic’s performance in Wednesday’s 124-116 victory over the Rockets, saying, “He definitely put on a clinic down the stretch. Whether it was in isolation versus Sengun, he just got us good offense whether for himself or for his teammates every single time down the floor.”
Redick credited the starting group in the fourth quarter for setting the tone: “The group that started the fourth really got us life going. They executed really well, got the matchups we wanted, we moved the basketball.”
On LeBron James’ efficiency, Redick noted, “The one shot he missed, he was trying to foulate. Look, he was awesome tonight. Part of the evolution of him on this team has been his patience…he’s going to have those opportunities and he’s played really patiently.”
Discussing James’ ability to finish above the rim at 41, Redick reflected personally: “I can touch the rim still. I can’t jump for three days after it, but I get one jump in me. Watching him makes me feel like a loser because of the preparation he puts into his body every single day.”
Redick highlighted the Lakers’ current team chemistry: “There’s a lot of things that are really good right now. High level of people embracing the roles that the team needs. Our guys are doing a fantastic job of making in-game adjustments.”
Addressing Houston’s physicality and early third-quarter surge, he said, “Some of the turnovers were because of that. Luka did a good job in that horns flash, going quickly, not allowing the double team, got to his spots, drew fouls, hit his pull-ups.”
Redick emphasized the team’s poise and execution: “You can tell when a group is connected. The adjustments we’ve made on both ends, from executing in-game to embracing roles, is at a much higher level right now.”
The Lakers, now 44-25, improved to seven straight wins, led by Doncic’s 40 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists, and James’ 30 points on 13-of-14 shooting. Los Angeles will visit Miami on Thursday, while Houston hosts Atlanta on Friday.
