Overview
- Following the 112-104 defeat to the Clippers, JJ Redick said the Lakers "didn’t trust each other" offensively and cited insufficient passing as a recurring issue.
- Redick linked those lapses to a roster heavy with pending free agents and player options, noting the "human element" of players worrying about their futures, with reporting identifying eight of 14 standard-contract players in that category.
- Redick emphasized that ball movement must start with Luka Dončić, saying the primary ball handler has to "trust the pass" when defenses load up on him.
- Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura acknowledged that contract uncertainty affects dynamics, describing teammates fighting for deals and minutes as a real factor.
- The Lakers trailed by as many as 26 points before their rally fell short, and LeBron James said he believes the team should make a move before the trade deadline, according to Broderick Turner.