After eliminating the Houston Rockets in six games, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are now set to face the reigning NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the Western Conference semifinals.
Sure enough, beating a Thunder team featuring reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as well as All-Stars Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams is easier said than done. Not to mention, Oklahoma City finished the 2025-26 NBA season as the best defensive team in the league.
Lakers coach JJ Redick, however, is well aware of the threat that the Thunder pose. He specifically put the spotlight on their defense, noting that the defensive pressure Oklahoma City brings is on a whole other level compared to Houston's.
"The reality of their defense is that whatever moments we felt Houston pressuring, like the maximum amount of pressure they put on us, that's OKC's baseline," Redick told reporters Sunday, according to Khobi Price of California Post.
"That's their core. They're top-five in every category that's disruptive-based: Steals, blocks, turnovers forced, all that stuff. And they don't foul. They somehow do all of that without fouling, which is one of the most remarkable things I think in NBA history."
Aside from having the best defensive rating (106.5) during the regular season, the Thunder ranked third in defensive rebounds (34.6), tied for second in steals (9.7) and tied for fifth in blocks (5.5).
The Thunder also allow the second-lowest points off turnovers (14.7) and points in the paint (40.1), highlighting how great they are defensively.
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Lakers Coach JJ Redick's Comment About Thunder Causes a Stir
While Redick appears to be genuinely wary of the Thunder's defense, some fans couldn't help but notice his use of words in his statement.
Fans expressed belief that Redick is playing mind games by noting how the Thunder became a disruptive defensive team without fouling, which he described as "remarkable." Some believed he's being sarcastic, while others said that he's taking a shot at NBA officiating.
"J.J. with the nice little dig at the refs," a commenter wrote. Another one said, "He’s such a smart-[expletive] man I love it."
"Loving the sarcasm coach. Definitely no grabbing, holding, pushing, tripping by the @okcthunder . AMAZING," a fan added.
A social media user shared, "JJ funny this is a mind game to that sicko I love it lol."
"The JJ Redick mindgames have begun - and they're not just for show. He's getting his team ready to play on the biggest stage," a supporter noted.
A sixth follower stated, "elite troll job here. 10/10."
It will definitely be interesting to see what Redick will say about OKC's defense and the officiating once their series begins. The Lakers and Thunder kick off the West semis Tuesday at Paycom Center.
