JJ Redick Appreciates Lakers’ Gritty 114-112 Victory Over Suns
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The Los Angeles Lakers clawed out a 114-112 win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night, a result that pleased first-year head coach JJ Redick despite the rocky finish.
“I love winning games like this,” Redick told reporters after the game at Footprint Center. “Winning ugly is really fun because it means you got in the trenches and fought, and we did that tonight.”
Los Angeles led by as many as 17 after a 24-0 surge that spanned the second and third quarters and held Phoenix to 41 points in those periods. The Suns erased the advantage late, but two free throws from LeBron James with 12 seconds left secured the victory.
The Lakers shot just 43% from the field and 19% from three-point range, yet dominated the glass 54-37, including 20 offensive rebounds. They attempted 43 free throws, collected 13 steals and eight blocks, and forced 19 turnovers that turned into 31 points.
With guard Austin Reaves sidelined, the bench delivered key minutes alongside James and Luka Doncic. The matchup grew heated at times; center Deandre Ayton described it as “emotional,” citing the Lakers’ edge throughout the night.
The win followed Los Angeles’ Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinal loss earlier in the week and halted Phoenix’s bid for a second straight victory in the season series.
Source: Lakers Nation
