LeBron James previews the Lakers vs Thunder playoff series, focusing on defensive pressure, turnovers, and the challenge of guarding Shai Gilgeous Alexander

JJ Redick and the Los Angeles Lakers came out with an excellent defensive game plan against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in Game 1.

For a while, the Los Angeles Lakers have been a rather weak defensive team. On the season, they rank 22nd in defensive rating, but during their current three-game winning streak, they have shown some signs of improvement. “I think so,” James said.

The Houston Rockets’ first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers has not gone as expected whatsoever. Houston was favored entering this matchup

TICKETS Get the best seats for all NBA games at Tickets Marca NBA JJ Redick puts Oklahoma City Thunder among NBA’s all-time greats In their absence, LeBron James turned back the clock, leading both teams in scoring throughout the series.

LeBron James’ frustration with Hachimura is indicative of a greater frustration that the team has had on the defensive side of the ball. James himself has called out the team for playing in a more inspired way on defense and making more hustle plays. Just a few days ago, James dove for a loose ball in a game against the Denver Nuggets.

Stephen A. Smith and Brian Windhorst calls out the Lakers’ shaky defense as LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves struggle to achieve results. The Los Angeles Lakers kicked off the 2025-26 NBA season with impressive momentum, but recent ...