Overview
- Phoenix shot 59% from the field and 41% from three as Los Angeles surrendered 12 offensive rebounds and committed 17 turnovers in the 24-point loss.
- Coach JJ Redick blasted effort and mobility—saying “we just can’t move”—and framed the breakdowns as choice and communication issues, citing a player not knowing the basic “flood” concept.
- Marcus Smart called the defense unacceptable and warned opponents are targeting the Lakers, insisting the fixes rest with the players before it becomes too late.
- LeBron James said defense must function with “five guys on a string,” pointing to fastbreak scores, second-chance points and open threes as recurring failures.
- Reporting indicates the front office is exploring perimeter 3-and-D additions, with interest in Herb Jones and Keon Ellis ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline, as injuries and rotating lineups complicate short‑term adjustments.