The Los Angeles Lakers experienced a season full of highs and lows. At times, they displayed impressive consistency on both ends of the court, fueling hopes of a deep playoff run. However, injuries and frequent roster changes disrupted their momentum, ultimately leading to their elimination by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs. Following the loss, JJ Redick remarked that the team needs to be in “championship shape” moving forward. His comment drew attention from a former franchise star. He did not hold back in delivering a sharp critique.
“First of all, what does JJ know about championship shape?…Has he ever won a championship? … I just wanna know what is championship shape? That’s all I’m asking. Do you know what championship shape is? Because, for me, when you talk about championship shape, that means you’ve been there, done that,” stated former Lakers player Robert Horry on Nightcap.
Furthermore, Robert Horry suggested that Redick ‘shape’ comments may have been aimed at Luka Doncic. While his words came off as sharp, JJ Redick’s résumé provides context for the criticism. In his 15-year NBA career, Redick never captured a championship title. Still, judging someone’s coaching potential solely on their playing accomplishments is a flawed approach. Especially considering he has already shown promise in building a competitive roster.
Although many people agreed with Horry’s general sentiment, his remarks did not sit well with most NBA fans. That is because judging someone only by their résumé would have denied Gregg Popovich the chance to win five titles with the San Antonio Spurs. That said, it is fair to acknowledge Redick still has areas to improve. But to his credit, he has already opened to self-criticism after the defeat.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and head coach JJ Redick.
Robert Horry claims JJ Redick’s two coaching mistakes cost the Lakers their 2025 playoff run against Timberwolves
JJ Redick made several controversial decisions during the postseason. The Lakers were competitive against the Timberwolves, but his strategy fell short. He did not rotate his players enough. He also failed to adjust his ideas throughout the series.
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As a result, the roster looked exhausted in the final games. The team even lost the last three games in a row. Because of that, Robert Horry did not hold back his opinion. He believed Redick should have used two specific players. That, in his view, could have changed everything.
“(Anthony Edwards) cooking you and your best defender is on the bench, (Jarred Vanderbilt). Give him a chance! At least you got six fouls. What are you doing?,” affirmed Robert Horry on Nightcap. Then, he also added: “The biggest mistake the Lakers made all season was not trying to implement Dalton Knecht into the system…That’s a flamethrower over there. You gotta give him a chance.”
The Lakers struggled defensively throughout the series. They made key mistakes in one-on-one situations. Despite that, Redick stuck with his usual plan. He barely used Vanderbilt or Knecht. Because of that, fans and analysts grew frustrated. His lack of flexibility exposed a major flaw as he could not adapt under pressure when it mattered most.
