Lakers Struggle Continues After Painful Loss to Clippers as JJ Redick Calls Out Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered another frustrating setback on Thursday night, falling to their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers. The loss not only extended the Lakers’ recent struggles but also raised serious concerns about team chemistry and offensive cohesion as the regular season progresses.

Despite another strong scoring performance from Luka Dončić, the Lakers looked disjointed on both ends of the floor. Ball movement was inconsistent, spacing broke down repeatedly, and the offense often stalled into isolation-heavy possessions. With the loss, the Lakers remain tied for the sixth seed in the Western Conference, but their position is far from secure, as the Minnesota Timberwolves sit level with them and threaten to push Los Angeles into the play-in tournament.

JJ Redick Sends a Clear Message to Luka Dončić

Following the game, head coach JJ Redick did not shy away from addressing the team’s issues—and he specifically pointed to Dončić as a focal point for change. Redick emphasized the importance of trust, ball movement, and offensive connectivity, particularly from the player who controls the ball the most.

“There’s got to be a trust factor with all our guys,” Redick said. “Just trust the pass. That starts with Luka. He’s going to have the ball the most of everyone, and he’s got to trust the pass when it gets to him. When he’s playing in a crowd, he’s got to pass the ball.”

Redick’s comments were notable not just for their honesty, but for their timing. Publicly calling out a superstar is a rare move, but one that reflects the urgency of the Lakers’ situation.

Ball Stoppage and Offensive Disconnect

Film from Thursday’s loss showed a recurring problem: Luka holding the ball too long, allowing defenses to load up, and failing to consistently involve teammates. Several of the Lakers’ worst possessions came when Dončić attempted to create offense in heavy traffic rather than moving the ball early.

Perhaps most telling was the fourth-quarter rally. The Lakers made a significant push with Dončić on the bench for a large portion of that run, showing improved pace and ball movement. By the end of the night, Luka finished with a team-worst -17 plus/minus, despite the Lakers losing the game by only eight points.

While plus/minus is not a perfect stat, the contrast between team flow with and without Dončić was hard to ignore.

The Austin Reaves Factor Changes Everything

There is some context to Dončić’s ball-dominant approach. With Austin Reaves sidelined due to injury, the Lakers have leaned heavily on Luka Dončić and LeBron James to generate offense. In those circumstances, a more aggressive, ball-heavy style can be justified.

However, that excuse is about to disappear.

Reaves is expected to return within the next few games, and his presence fundamentally changes the Lakers’ offensive identity. Reaves thrives as a secondary creator, a smart cutter, and a capable playmaker who needs touches to be effective.

Once Reaves returns, Dončić will be under increased pressure to adjust his approach. Redick’s emphasis on passing and trust will be tested immediately with another high-usage player back in the lineup.

Lakers Need More Than Stars to Win

The Clippers loss reinforced a growing reality: Luka Dončić and LeBron James alone are not enough to carry this Lakers team to consistent wins. The modern NBA demands balance, ball movement, and role-player involvement—regardless of star power.

Earlier this season, the Lakers found success when Reaves was actively involved, role players were getting clean looks, and the offense flowed freely. That formula has disappeared in recent weeks, replaced by stagnant possessions and predictable shot selection.

To compete at a high level, the Lakers must reestablish that team-first identity.

Pressure Mounting as Standings Tighten

With the Western Conference standings tightening by the day, every loss carries increased weight. Falling into the play-in tournament would dramatically raise the difficulty of the Lakers’ postseason path, and expectations around the league remain sky-high for a roster featuring three All-Star caliber players.

Outside of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s young core, many analysts believe the Lakers possess one of the strongest trios in the NBA. But talent alone does not guarantee success, especially when offensive roles are unclear.

Luka’s Past Proves He Can Adapt

The criticism of Dončić should not overshadow his proven ability as a passer. During his time with the Dallas Mavericks, Luka consistently demonstrated elite playmaking, elevating teammates and orchestrating efficient offenses.

The challenge in Los Angeles is different. Playing alongside LeBron James and Austin Reaves requires a more fluid, shared-creation system. Luka must balance scoring aggression with proactive playmaking, especially early in possessions.

A more free-flowing offense is not optional—it is the only realistic path forward for the Lakers.

Redick’s Call-Out Signals Urgency

JJ Redick’s decision to publicly challenge Dončić sends a clear signal: the coaching staff knows this is a problem, and patience is wearing thin. With the trade deadline approaching and playoff positioning on the line, adjustments must come quickly.

If Luka embraces the message—trusting the pass, involving teammates, and allowing the offense to breathe—the Lakers still have time to turn their season around. If not, the struggles seen against the Clippers may become the norm rather than the exception.