NBA News: JJ Redick sends a bold message about player availability when facing the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers took down the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night with a hard-fought 134-127 victory, fueled by a dominant performance from their NBA star trio of LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves. The game also marked the return of Ja Morant, who had been sidelined with an injury—something that head coach JJ Redick didn’t overlook.

After the game, Redick was asked about a growing theory among Lakers fans that opposing teams often have their key players return just in time to face Los Angeles. The first-year head coach backed up the claim with a notable statistic.

“I think it’s like 86% of [opposing] payroll has been available to [play] us this year, which is by far No. 1 in the league,” Redick said, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

Lakers fans on social media have long joked about injured stars making their comebacks specifically against L.A., and Saturday’s game only fueled that narrative. Morant, who had missed Memphis’ previous six contests, returned to the lineup just in time to face the Lakers.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers interact during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 29, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Austin Reaves on LeBron James’ fourth-quarter leadership

The Lakers’ victory was driven by their “Big Three” of James, Doncic, and Reaves, who combined for 85 points and 25 assists. However, a crucial moment came in the fourth quarter when James made his presence felt in a different way—by delivering a fiery message to his teammates during a timeout. After the game, Reaves was asked about the moment and admitted he appreciated James’ vocal leadership.

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“It’s the first time I’ve heard him yell in a while,” Reaves said. “… It was refreshing, to be honest. I don’t remember exactly what he said, but it just shows how much he cares. His attention to detail is probably the standard. So, if all of us can lock into that every single possession, you can create something special.”

Big three shines in statement win

Reaves led the way with 31 points (8-16 FG), seven rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and a block. James followed with 25 points (10-21 FG), six rebounds, eight assists, three steals, and a block.

Meanwhile, Doncic delivered another all-around performance, finishing with 29 points (8-18 FG), eight rebounds, nine assists, and two steals. The Lakers’ star trio continues to build chemistry as they push for NBA playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference.