There’s a lot of ‘weirdness’ coming out of the Lakers right now! – Tim MacMahon

The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2025–26 campaign continues to be a fascinating study in resilience, adaptation, and the constant pursuit of excellence. Despite their impressive 22–11 record and a perfect mark in clutch games, the Lakers have found themselves in the midst of scrutiny—both internally and externally—as they navigate offensive struggles, shifting roles, and the pressure that comes with championship expectations.

In this feature, we analyze the Lakers’ recent comeback win over the Memphis Grizzlies, the evolving dynamic between players and head coach JJ Redick, the impact of star performances, and the broader NBA landscape, including Jaylen Brown’s ascendance in Boston and the lighter side of the league.

Lakers vs. Grizzlies: A Tale of Two Halves

The Lakers’ Friday night matchup against the Grizzlies was the second in three days between the teams, and it delivered all the drama fans have come to expect from one of basketball’s most storied franchises. What began as a night of frustration for head coach JJ Redick—who has been candid about the team’s offensive inconsistencies—quickly turned into a showcase of grit and star power.

Luka Dončić set the tone early, scoring 19 points in the first half on 5-of-10 shooting, continuing his trend as the NBA’s leader in first-half scoring. But as the game wore on, it was LeBron James who seized control, putting the Lakers on his back and orchestrating a remarkable comeback.

LeBron’s stat line was vintage: 26 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists, with just one turnover. His leadership was evident as he scored or assisted on 17 consecutive Lakers points from late in the third quarter through the middle of the fourth, helping erase a 16-point deficit and ultimately secure a two-point lead.

Jake LaRavia, facing his former team, contributed a strong performance, while Dončić finished with 36 points, capping a gritty win that reinforced the Lakers’ identity as a team that thrives under pressure.

Accountability and Coaching Philosophy: JJ Redick’s No-Nonsense Approach

JJ Redick’s tenure as Lakers head coach has been marked by directness and a refusal to sugarcoat issues. After recent offensive miscues, Redick didn’t hesitate to voice his displeasure, calling out missed assignments and a lack of execution in set plays. “I chalk it up to the holidays,” Redick said, referencing the team’s tendency to lose focus, but his underlying message was clear: standards must be upheld, regardless of circumstance.

LeBron James echoed the sentiment, recalling his own upbringing in the sport: “When I was growing up, if you messed up a play out of a timeout, you’d be running sprints. That’s just how I was brought up.” The Lakers’ willingness to accept criticism and respond with improved performance speaks to the culture Redick is cultivating.

Yet, as analysts Tim and Perk noted, there remains a question of whether Redick’s style is resonating with the entire roster. While stars like LeBron and Luka are aligned with the coach, the challenge lies in maximizing engagement and effort from role players—a crucial component for any team with championship aspirations.

The Star Tandem: LeBron and Luka’s Balancing Act

One of the Lakers’ defining features this season has been the interplay between LeBron James and Luka Dončić. The duo has alternated as offensive focal points, with Luka often leading early and LeBron taking over down the stretch. This strategic flexibility has paid dividends, particularly in clutch situations, where the Lakers remain undefeated at 12–0.

LeBron’s efficiency—especially his ability to limit turnovers while generating assists—has been a stabilizing force. His willingness to defer and facilitate, combined with Luka’s scoring prowess, gives the Lakers multiple avenues for creating offense, even when the team’s shooting is inconsistent.

The partnership is not without its quirks; LeBron’s comment that “I got to take care of the ball when I barely have the ball” highlights the ongoing process of finding the right balance. The Lakers’ ability to adapt and optimize this dynamic will be key as the season progresses.

Role Players and Locker Room Dynamics: The Deandre Ayton Question

Beneath the surface of the Lakers’ success lies a complex narrative involving role players, particularly Deandre Ayton. Early in the season, Ayton embraced a defensive-first mentality, expressing a desire to anchor the team and contribute in whatever way was needed. Recently, however, his tone has shifted, with frustration emerging over a lack of offensive touches.

Redick has been forthright about the issue, acknowledging that Ayton’s involvement is a shared responsibility. Missed opportunities in play execution, Ayton’s own activity level, and the need for passers to recognize his positioning have all contributed to the situation. “It comes down to whether he’s going to be active and engaged and assertive,” Redick explained, emphasizing the importance of early touches to establish rhythm.

Perk, reflecting on Ayton’s evolution, noted that successful coaches adapt to new generations, citing examples like Gregg Popovich and Rick Carlisle. The implication is clear: for the Lakers to reach their potential, Redick must balance accountability with empathy, ensuring that every player feels valued and motivated.

The Importance of Consequences and Adaptation

Tim’s analysis underscored the importance of consequences in driving behavioral change. “If you say the same thing over and over and they don’t change their behavior, you have to put some consequences on it,” she observed, drawing parallels to parenting. While Redick’s direct approach is effective in setting expectations, the true test lies in whether those expectations are enforced through lineup changes and playing time.

The Lakers’ current rotation has remained relatively stable, despite Redick’s critiques. The challenge moving forward will be to translate words into action, ensuring that accountability is more than just rhetoric.

The Lakers in Context: Contenders with Room to Grow

Despite their impressive record, the Lakers remain a team in search of consistency, particularly against elite competition. As Tim quipped, “This is the most downtrodden 22 and 11 team I’ve ever seen.” The Lakers have excelled against lesser opponents but must prove they can beat the league’s best to cement their status as true contenders.

With winnable games ahead, the opportunity for growth is there. The focus will be on refining execution, maintaining defensive intensity, and fostering unity within the locker room.

Jaylen Brown and the Celtics: A New Franchise Leader Emerges

While the Lakers navigate their own challenges, the broader NBA landscape offers compelling storylines. Chief among them is Jaylen Brown’s emergence as the undisputed leader of the Boston Celtics. With Jason Tatum sidelined, Brown has elevated his game, averaging 30 points on 50% shooting and 37% from three, while anchoring the defense.

Brown’s performance against Kawhi Leonard—a 50-point outburst coupled with elite defense—has silenced doubts about his franchise player credentials. As Perk noted, “He’s the best two-way player in the game right now.” Brown’s willingness to embrace challenges and hold teammates accountable has galvanized the Celtics, positioning them as a threat in the Eastern Conference.

Head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Brown’s leadership, coachability, and ability to give the team a chance to win every night. With Tatum’s return on the horizon, the Celtics are poised to make a deep playoff run, with Brown at the helm.

The Lighter Side: Family Moments and Personality in the NBA

Amidst the intensity of competition and the pressure of expectations, the NBA continues to provide moments of levity and humanity. Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra’s postgame press conference was briefly overshadowed by his children, reminding fans that behind the stoic exterior, there are personalities and families who shape the league’s culture.

Such moments offer a refreshing counterpoint to the seriousness of professional sports, highlighting the importance of balance and perspective.

Looking Ahead: Key Matchups and the Road to the Playoffs

The NBA schedule promises more drama and excitement, with marquee matchups on the horizon. Next Wednesday’s doubleheader—Cavaliers vs. Sixers followed by Nuggets vs. Mavericks—will provide further insight into the league’s hierarchy and the evolution of top contenders.

For the Lakers, the path forward is clear: address internal challenges, maintain accountability, and continue to build on their foundation of resilience and star power. The journey is ongoing, and the stakes are high.

Conclusion: The NBA’s Ongoing Story of Growth and Adaptation

The 2025–26 NBA season is a testament to the power of adaptation, leadership, and collective effort. The Lakers’ pursuit of excellence, Jaylen Brown’s rise in Boston, and the everyday moments that humanize the league all contribute to a rich tapestry of competition and camaraderie.

As fans and analysts alike look ahead, the focus will remain on the ability of teams and individuals to evolve, overcome adversity, and seize opportunities. The Lakers, Celtics, and countless others are writing new chapters in the NBA’s ongoing story—a story defined by passion, perseverance, and the relentless quest for greatness.