J.J. Redick’s preseason as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers hasn’t gone as planned. The absence of his superstar, LeBron James, is already taking its toll, even before the regular season begins. Redick must now use these exhibition games to adjust his rotations and figure out how to start the 2025-26 campaign without one of his most important players.
Although the Lakers’ roster includes several proven talents, the void left by “The King” is difficult to fill. The team is currently focused on finding ways to cope without him during both the preseason and the early stretch of the regular season. James is expected to miss three to four weeks due to a sciatic nerve issue.
During a recent press conference, Redick appeared visibly irritated by what he called redundant questions from reporters about the team’s struggles. And perhaps the media has reason to probe, of the three games played so far, the Lakers have dropped two.
Redick’s reaction to questions about preseason losses
Redick didn’t deny that the Lakers have looked disjointed. He acknowledged that results haven’t been ideal but urged the media not to dwell on wins and losses during this stage.
You guys are really harping on this.
Redick said, clearly frustrated. When reporters pressed further, asking,
Is it a thing or is it not a thing?
The coach responded firmly.
I’m not being combative right now,” he began, before elaborating.
I just want to acknowledge that you guys, like the last four days, like it’s becoming a little bit obsessive with all these questions about opportunities lost. So, I will answer it again. These are the cards that we were dealt. I sure would like everybody to be healthy.
His tone reflected both exasperation and realism, an understanding that preseason struggles, while concerning, are not definitive indicators of the season ahead.
An intense preseason ahead for the Lakers
The Lakers’ schedule remains packed as they prepare for the maximum six preseason games allowed by the NBA. Their next contest will take place on the road against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, October 14. After that, they’ll return home to host the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, followed by a preseason finale against the Sacramento Kings on Friday, October 17.
Redick remained optimistic about the broader experience:
It’s something to be discussed I think going forward,” he said. “I think it’s awesome. I really do because we got to play in Palm Springs and I think it’s awesome that we get to play in Vegas and I recognize that there’s Lakers fans all over the world that maybe don’t get the chance to see us play. You hope that we can find some sort of balance in the future to get more practice time, less travel time. I’m sure at some point we’ll be one of the teams going overseas, so then that adds another scenario.
Redick’s words highlight both the logistical challenges and global reach of the Lakers brand. As the preseason winds down, all eyes turn to October 21, when Los Angeles opens its regular season against the Golden State Warriors.
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