Lakers head coach JJ Redick called Saturday’s shouting match with Luka Doncic a routine in-game flare-up, insisting the two maintain a strong working relationship.
The incident unfolded during Los Angeles’ win over Golden State, when Redick offered Doncic a fist bump as the guard headed to the bench. Doncic walked past without acknowledging the gesture, prompting Redick to follow him to his seat. Both exchanged words until Redick returned to the sideline; Doncic briefly resumed the argument before Jarred Vanderbilt stepped in to ease tensions.
“I didn’t think much of it at the time,” Redick told reporters. “Those things happen … two guys trying to win a basketball game.” A team source attributed the moment to frustration over a three-game losing streak, while a source close to Doncic echoed that the pair are highly competitive but maintain mutual respect.
Mixed results with star trio
The Lakers are 11-6 when Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves all play, yet they have outscored opponents by just three points in their 297 shared minutes, according to The Athletic. Lineups featuring all three average 109.2 points per 100 possessions, which would rank 29th league-wide. Redick noted the challenge is “when they’re all on the court together … people have to sacrifice,” adding that James’ usage rate is at a career low and Reaves’ has dipped as well.
Reaves’ free agency looms
Re-signing Reaves is expected to be a top offseason priority. On the “Run It Back” podcast, Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix said the guard will command a substantial market but that Los Angeles is confident it can retain him. The club is reportedly more focused on adding elite defenders to complement Reaves and Doncic.
Frontcourt blueprint
Mannix added that the Lakers view the 2024 Dallas NBA Finals roster as a model, potentially seeking a rim-running center similar to the Mavericks’ Daniel Gafford/Dereck Lively II tandem. Current L.A. big man Deandre Ayton, who holds an $8.1 million player option for next season, may not fit that mold. Gafford was mentioned in several trade rumors before the deadline and could resurface as a target.
Front-office addition
The Lakers named Michael Spetner chief strategy and growth officer, marking another executive move from the MLB’s Dodgers to the NBA franchise.
Source: HoopsRumors
