When the Los Angeles Lakers hired JJ Redick, the skepticism was loud. Critics labeled him a “podcaster coach” who had only secured the spot due to his friendship with LeBron James. However, as the 2025-26 campaign heats up, those critics are becoming increasingly quiet.
The Lakers aren’t just winning, they look like a completely different team, and the results are impossible to ignore.
How Has JJ Redick Silenced the Doubters in Los Angeles?
Most fans remember the frustration of last season ending in a first-round playoff exit. For a franchise that hasn’t hung a banner in five years, the pressure was on from day one. Yet, Redick has turned the narrative around. While having a superstar like Luka Dončić on the roster certainly makes life easier, Redick’s coaching has been the engine behind this transformation.
The numbers tell the story better than anyone could. Reports indicate the Lakers hold a stunning 57-4 record when leading entering the fourth quarter under Redick. That level of closing ability is exactly what this team lacked in the past.
“JJ Redick has led the Lakers to a 57-4 record when leading after 3 quarters, the BEST record in NBA history.”
JJ Redick has led the Lakers to a 57-4 record when leading after 3 quarters, the BEST record in NBA history.
Just insane. 🤯 (via @SpectrumSN) pic.twitter.com/I7kYDFDLyN
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 26, 2025
In previous years, the Lakers were notorious for blowing big leads and allowing opponents to orchestrate late comebacks. That bad habit has disappeared under Redick. He has proved he can manage the game and shut the door on opponents, making the Lakers one of the most intimidating squads in the West.
Los Angeles currently sits at 13-4, holding second place in the Western Conference and chasing the Oklahoma City Thunder. The race is incredibly tight, however. The Denver Nuggets possess an identical record, while the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, and Phoenix Suns are trailing by just two wins. This logjam proves just how competitive the conference is this year.
With the recent roster upgrades and Dončić playing at an MVP-caliber level, the Lakers have established themselves as a legitimate force. They are handling business against tough competition, which bodes well for the rest of the regular season.
The upcoming schedule will test their resolve, with games against the Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Phoenix Suns on the horizon. These matchups are golden opportunities to improve their standing. If they can maintain this momentum and health, a deep postseason run feels inevitable.