Redick Praises Lakers’ Second-Half Defense After Early Struggles in Utah
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Salt Lake City, Dec. 18, 2025 — After watching his team concede 78 first-half points, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick challenged his players in the locker room, and the response fueled a comeback victory over the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.
“Our defense in the first half was not good,” Redick said on Spectrum SportsNet. “They shot 15 points over expected and made five more threes than expected. I can count in my brain the ones that were ridiculous shot-making. I challenged them at halftime; our defense was much better in the second half. It wasn’t perfect, but it was much better.”
The Jazz played without leading scorer Lauri Markkanen, yet still erupted early, forcing Redick to search for answers. A reserve trio — Jarred Vanderbilt, Maxi **(surname not provided)** and Jake LaRavia — provided the spark Redick wanted. “Those guys changed the game for us with their multiple efforts,” he said, highlighting Vanderbilt’s work on the offensive glass, LaRavia’s put-back basket and Maxi’s chasedown block that led to a rebound and drawn foul.
Los Angeles still surrendered 57 points after halftime but limited Utah’s rhythm long enough to secure the win and improve to 17-10. The Lakers have battled defensive inconsistency throughout the 2025-26 season, a trend Redick acknowledged must change if the club hopes to contend.
With Austin Reaves sidelined, Redick has leaned heavily on Luka Doncic and LeBron James, and he publicly asked both stars for greater defensive commitment. According to the coach, they answered the call in the final two quarters against Utah.
The victory gives Los Angeles three wins in its last four games, but Redick reiterated his focus on “winning the possession battle” and sustaining defensive intensity for 48 minutes.
Source: Lakers Nation
