The Los Angeles Lakers secured a dominant 140–109 win over the Houston Rockets in the penultimate game of the regular NBA season, bolstered by a stellar performance from Luka Doncic and a major coaching milestone for JJ Redick. The victory improved the Lakers’ record to 50–31, locking in a playoff spot and positioning them for a potential No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. Lebron James sends a congratulations message to his coach.
Doncic led the way with 39 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Austin Reaves continued his breakout season with 23 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. LeBron James added 14 points, eight assists, and four rebounds in limited minutes.
The win marked the Lakers’ 50th of the season—a significant achievement for first-year head coach JJ Redick. LeBron James took to X (formerly Twitter) to offer his praise: “Man I was going to say something but it’s useless at this point in my career! Anyways more important CONGRATULATIONS JJ on a 50 win season in the WEST & Post Season nod!” James wrote, accompanied by fire, praise, and salute emojis.
Lakers eye final game strategy
While the Lakers have secured their playoff berth, their final seeding remains in flux. With one game left against the Portland Trail Blazers—who are out of postseason contention—Redick may choose to rest key players, including James, ahead of the playoffs.
Head coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center.
Austin Reaves opens up about his relationship with LeBron
Austin Reaves, enjoying the best season of his young NBA career, has become a key contributor to the Lakers’ success. Following Friday’s win, the 25-year-old guard offered a candid reflection on his early perception of LeBron James.
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“I wasn’t a huge LeBron fan. I was a Kobe (Bryant) fan, so automatically I didn’t love him,” Reaves admitted during his postgame press conference. “As all of y’all probably saw during my rookie year, there was that tweet from when I was 12 talking (expletive) about LeBron.”
Despite his past opinions, Reaves said his view has changed entirely since joining James in Los Angeles. “Obviously, I always respected his game. But being around him every single day, the joy he brings to the team—he’s never in a bad mood.”
Reaves went on to credit James for his development in the NBA: “For him to welcome me when I was on a two-way contract to where I am today and treat me the same… I owe him a lot for what he’s helped me accomplish.”
