UPDATE: In a fiery response, former NBA player Kenyon Martin has sharply criticized JJ Redick, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, following the team’s disappointing 119-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on December 25, 2025. This defeat marks the Lakers’ third consecutive loss and has raised serious questions about their effort and professionalism.
During a recent episode of “Gil’s Arena,” Martin reacted to Redick’s comments, where the coach lamented the team’s lack of effort. “We don’t care enough right now,” Redick stated, echoing frustrations shared by fans and analysts alike. The Lakers, who started the season strong at 15-4, have since struggled with consistency and morale.
Martin did not hold back, questioning Redick’s leadership style. “Is this the f—–g kindergarten classroom where you put words of the day on the f—–g board? What are we talking about here?” Martin exclaimed, mocking the coach’s call for improved effort from his players.
The atmosphere in the Lakers’ locker room appears to be fraught with tension, as Martin suggested that the players may not respect Redick as their coach. “JJ, I don’t know if you know this or not, bro. Them dudes don’t respect you,” he asserted, hinting that star player LeBron James is viewed as more of a leader than Redick.
Amid the turmoil, Redick has vowed to make upcoming practices “uncomfortable” to spark a turnaround. “We need to demand more from each other,” he stated, emphasizing that the team must improve before their next game against the Sacramento Kings.
As the Lakers face mounting pressure, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Redick can rally his team and reclaim their early-season form. The urgency for change is palpable, and the stakes are high as the season progresses.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and the Lakers’ next steps as they attempt to turn their season around.