Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged on Tuesday that the club is entering what he considers the hardest stretch of its young season. After opening 2025-26 with a 15-5 record despite multiple injuries and limited appearances from LeBron James, the team now faces three road games in four nights against the Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics, and Philadelphia 76ers.
“The NBA schedule is always challenging, but this one stands out,” Redick said, noting that in his 19 years around the league he cannot recall a California team traveling to the eastern edge of the conference for a three-game run compressed into four nights. “It’s a significant test, and we have to be ready for everything that comes with it.”
Immediate Schedule
The trip begins with a back-to-back Wednesday in Toronto and Thursday in Boston, followed by a Saturday matchup in Philadelphia. The Lakers then fly back to Los Angeles to host the San Antonio Spurs in the quarterfinals of the Emirates NBA Cup.
Managing Injuries
Redick must navigate health concerns as well. Marcus Smart is nursing a back issue, while James continues to manage a long-standing foot problem. Even so, the Lakers have posted victories regardless of lineup changes, leaning on standout play from Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
Bouncing Back After Phoenix Loss
The team’s seven-game winning streak ended with a lopsided defeat to the Phoenix Suns on Monday. Reaves said the group needs to “flush” the setback quickly with the demanding trip ahead.
With four games in five nights—including an elimination contest in the NBA’s in-season tournament—Redick emphasized that workload management and focus will be critical to sustaining the Lakers’ strong start.
Source: Lakers Nation
