Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes the final 28 games of the 2025-26 schedule will be a “sprint” and is urging his roster to capitalize on a rare stretch of full health.
Speaking after the team’s last practice before games resume, Redick noted that the club has played only 10 contests with its primary trio available but is finally close to full strength. “Coaches can’t control injuries,” he said, adding that players can only prepare and recover while “basketball luck” determines the rest.
The demanding calendar, which offers no more than a single off-day between matchups until the end of March, makes fast starts essential, Redick explained. He called the post-All-Star portion “another segment of the season” and said the Lakers have an opportunity to produce their best basketball if recent trends continue.
Defensive progress in zone scheme
Redick highlighted the team’s switch to a zone defense over the last 14 games, reporting that Los Angeles has posted the NBA’s top half-court rating during possessions that begin in that alignment. Transition stops have also improved, which he credited to players “sprinting back into our zone.”
Offense built on paint touches and ball movement
On offense, the Lakers have recorded several of their highest paint-touch percentages of the year. Redick said the numbers show the team is “elite” whenever it consistently reaches the lane and shares the ball. He emphasized that converting potential assists into actual assists has correlated with wins.
The coach acknowledged the group “needed the break badly,” but now expects a full-throttle push toward the Western Conference playoff race. He also reiterated his appreciation for LeBron James, praising the 23-year veteran’s impact and stating he does not take the forward’s contributions for granted.
Source: LakersNation.com
