“You can’t let Rudy Gobert go for 27 and 24 and have no resistance” – Michael Wilbon feels JJ Redick deserves blame for his poor coaching decisions against the T-Wolves…

“You can’t let Rudy Gobert go for 27 and 24 and have no resistance” – Michael Wilbon feels JJ Redick deserves blame for his poor coaching decisions against the T-Wolves…

 

ESPN’s Michael Wilbon has sharply criticized Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick for his coaching decisions during the team’s first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Wilbon’s comments come after the Lakers were eliminated in five games, culminating in a 103–96 loss in Game 5.

In particular, Wilbon pointed to Redick’s failure to address Rudy Gobert’s dominant performance in Game 5, where the Timberwolves center recorded 27 points and 24 rebounds. Wilbon stated, “You can’t let Rudy Gobert go for 27 and 24 and have no resistance,” emphasizing the Lakers’ lack of defensive adjustments to contain Gobert.

Redick, a first-year head coach, faced criticism throughout the series for his strategic choices. In Game 4, he made the unprecedented decision not to substitute any players in the second half, leading to fatigue among starters like LeBron James and Luka Dončić. This lack of depth contributed to a fourth-quarter collapse, where the Lakers were outscored 32–19, resulting in a narrow three-point loss .([Silver Screen and Roll]

 

Further controversy surrounded Redick’s emotional responses to media scrutiny. Before Game 5, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that Redick stormed out of a press conference after being questioned about his substitution patterns, an incident that was described as “childish” by some insiders .([New York Post][2])

 

The Lakers’ early exit from the playoffs has raised questions about the team’s future direction. With Luka Dončić eligible for a contract extension and LeBron James’ career nearing its twilight, the organization faces critical decisions in the offseason. Redick’s performance as head coach will be under intense scrutiny as the Lakers aim to rebuild and contend for championships in the coming seasons.([New York Post][2])

[1]: “JJ Redick’s rookie mistake in Game 4 could cost Lakers their season”

[2]: “JJ Redick was acting ‘childish’ before Game 5 loss – ESPN insider b

lasts Lakers coach”