JJ Redick has openly addressed the growing issues facing the Los Angeles Lakers, admitting that LeBron James‘ return has disrupted rhythm and structure as the team struggles to adjust during a difficult stretch.
The Lakers are 8-5 since James returned from a sciatica injury that sidelined him early in the season, but recent performances suggest the reintegration has not been seamless in the 2025/26 NBA season.
During James’ absence, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves flourished, both playing at an All-NBA level while anchoring an offense that appeared fluid and decisive but since James rejoined the lineup, Los Angeles went on a run of dropping three straight games.
The fall off prompted Redick to promise “uncomfortable” film sessions aimed at addressing effort and accountability and while he initially avoided naming individuals, he later acknowledged that adapting to James‘ presence has created confusion and inconsistency.
“Since we’ve gotten Bron back, we haven’t been as organized offensively,” Redick told the media. “Too many random possessions.
“That’s on me. It’s those three things: defensive clarity, role clarity and offensive organization.”
Advanced metrics reflect concerns, as StatMuse lists James with a minus-59 box-plus-minus, suggesting his minutes have coincided with negative overall impact, although his averages remain strong.
Critics note much of his production has come late in decided games or failed to translate into meaningful wins but Redick is not considering benching or trading James.
Yet internal decisions suggest the franchise may be more cautious about long-term reliance. At this stage of his career, James has little left to prove, yet questions remain about his defensive effort, rebounding, and effectiveness without the ball.
How did Luka Doncic win Sacramento Kings clash for LA?
Redick‘s bold coaching approach was on full display against Sacramento, as he made unconventional rotation choices while navigating injuries and chemistry concerns.
With Reaves sidelined, Redick experimented by limiting Doncic‘s early minutes, pulling him with three minutes left in the first quarter to manage flow.
The coach later explained the decision after the 125-101 win, noting that game rhythm prevented a standard reentry and required on-the-fly adjustments.
“LeBron just decided with 55 seconds left he was going to let Luka finish, but yeah,” Redick said, describing how the closing moments unfolded.
The moment highlighted James’ authority, recalling a recent instance when he took technical free throws despite Redick preferring Doncic for those attempts.
That episode underscored lingering tension, especially after a major trade positioned Doncic as the franchise centerpiece alongside Reaves.
James‘ return forced further recalibration, and Redick identified drawbacks in a heavily Doncic-centered offense, particularly after the guard suffered a leg contusion.
To counterbalance, Redick introduced staggered rotations ensuring either James or Doncic runs the offense at all times.
The approach paid dividends against Sacramento, with James supporting Doncic late and both stars closing efficiently.
“It’s a longer stretch for LeBron and a shorter stretch for Luka,” Redick continued. “But it’s not going to diminish either of their overall playing time.”
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