The Los Angeles Lakers are currently playing like one of the most disappointing 12-10 teams in NBA history. While their record is far from catastrophic, their recent form suggests they are closer to the bottom of the standings than a playoff contender. With the team struggling, LeBron James has stepped up to hold his teammates accountable for the Lakers’ ongoing struggles.
After a promising 10-4 start, the Lakers have slumped to a 2-6 record in their last eight games. During this stretch, they have suffered four losses by at least 25 points, including a humiliating 134-93 defeat to the Miami Heat. Following this loss, James did not hold back in calling out his teammates for their lack of accountability in the face of repeated poor performances.
LeBron’s comments show the leadership and maturity needed to steer the Lakers through this rough patch. Against the Heat, the Lakers were outscored in every quarter, with their offense stagnant and their defense falling apart. Miami made the most of this, hitting 24 three-pointers and racking up 134 points while attempting just nine free throws.
This loss highlighted the Lakers’ ongoing issue with perimeter defense, a major weakness throughout the season. Los Angeles currently ranks 24th in three-pointers allowed and 26th in opponent shooting percentage from beyond the arc. As a result, they sit at 27th in defensive rating and 23rd in net rating, which is the worst among teams with a positive win-loss record.
Inconsistent play has become the Lakers’ hallmark this season. After a six-game winning streak, they’ve now dropped six of their last eight games, with only two wins coming on the road during this stretch. The unpredictability of first-year coach JJ Redick’s leadership has left fans wondering how the team can find stability.
LeBron James has also struggled individually, shooting just 43.7% from the field and 11.8% from three-point range over the past seven games. His slump mirrors the team’s overall struggles, with the Lakers often appearing lifeless on both ends of the floor.
Perhaps LeBron and Anthony Davis calling out their teammates for better accountability will spark a much-needed turnaround as the Lakers work to end their dismal run.
