JJ Redick Stresses Turnovers as Primary Concern for Lakers Ahead of Thunder Series
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As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for their second-round matchup with the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, head coach JJ Redick said ball security will determine whether his team can compete.
“Taking care of the ball,” Redick responded when asked what will matter most against Oklahoma City. The Thunder swept the Lakers in four regular-season games, capitalizing on L.A.’s miscues. Oklahoma City ranks in the NBA’s top five for steals, blocks and turnovers forced while rarely fouling, a combination Redick called “one of the most remarkable things in NBA history.”
Redick’s focus in the first round against the Houston Rockets was defensive rebounding, and the Lakers emphasized that area throughout practices. With less preparation time before Game 1 of the conference semifinals, drills have shifted to pressure-release options designed to limit giveaways.
“Today was building toward what tomorrow’s going to look like and building toward Game 1,” Redick said. “We have to have some built-in pressure releases.”
The challenge grows without injured guard Luka Doncic, whose absence has increased the team’s turnover rate. Ball-handling duties will rest primarily with LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard—players Redick said must “stay locked in” to avoid “silly mistakes.”
Redick also praised the Thunder’s recent rise, noting that back-to-back seasons with a net rating improvement of at least 10 points are rare. “You’re talking about the ’95-’96 Bulls, the ’96-’97 Bulls and the ’15-’17 Warriors,” he said. “The Thunder is one of the greatest teams ever in NBA history. That’s just the reality.”
The Lakers visit Paycom Center on April 2, 2026, for Game 1 of the best-of-seven series.
Source: LakersNation.com
