Los Angeles Lakers suffered a tough 111-101 loss to the Boston Celtics on Saturday night, despite a stellar NBA performance from Luka Doncic. However, Doncic’s efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Celtics, and head coach JJ Redick shouldered the blame for the defeat.

According to Jovan Buha via X (formerly Twitter), Redick admitted that the team lacked organization, particularly in the second half. “JJ Redick said the Lakers were too ‘unorganized’ and players weren’t in the right spots or getting to those spots quick enough in the second and third quarters vs. Boston. He said his messaging got lost in translation and took accountability, saying that’s on him.”

Despite the loss, Doncic made history in his Lakers debut against Boston, becoming the first player since 1958 to score the most points in his first game against the Celtics in franchise history. The Slovenian superstar finished with 34 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. LeBron James contributed 22 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win against Joe Mazzulla’s squad.

LeBron James’ injury adds to Lakers’ concerns

The biggest blow of the night came in the fourth quarter when LeBron James exited the NBA game due to a groin injury. The severity of the injury remains uncertain, but Redick may have to plan for the next couple of weeks without his veteran leader.

Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers plays the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter at Ball Arena.

How will Redick adjust without LeBron?

Following James’ injury, Redick remains confident in his approach moving forward. “I think we just have to continue to play hard and play defense,” Redick said. The Lakers will likely lean on Austin Reaves’ versatility, with Doncic expected to take an even greater role in the offense. While James’ absence will be felt, Redick believes the team has enough firepower to remain competitive.

Latest injury update on LeBron

NBA insider Shams Charania provided an update on James’ status: “Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is expected to miss at least 1-to-2 weeks with a groin strain, sources tell ESPN. James will wait for the groin injury to calm down over the next 24 hours and receive another evaluation.”

Charania also offered encouraging news for Lakers fans, noting that James’ injury does not appear as severe as the groin tear he suffered in 2018, which sidelined him for 17 games.

“Unlike in 2018 when LeBron James had that groin tear, I’m told he did not hear a pop last night in Boston.” With James expected to miss time, the Lakers will need to rally behind Doncic and Reaves as they look to stay afloat in a competitive Western Conference.