JJ Redick and the LA Lakers clinched a playoff spot in late March. LA’s 120-101 win against the Washington Wizards and the Orlando Magic’s 115-111 victory over the Phoenix Suns assured them of a postseason ticket.
While the Lakers are set for a playoff appearance, their opponent remains unknown as the seedings have yet to be determined. The matchups are uncertain, but Redick is sure about one thing. He responded when asked about his team’s looming first-round series during a conference before the Lakers-Suns matchup on Friday:
“I’m sure everybody wants to play us. Let’s get that out there. I’m sure everybody wants to play us.”
The Lakers have sidelined Luka Doncic due to a Grade 2 hamstring strain and Austin Reaves with a Grade 2 oblique strain to close the regular season. Doncic sustained his injury during a blowout loss to the OKC Thunder on Tuesday, while Reaves’ oblique strain was diagnosed following that bruising encounter. JJ Redick received serious criticism for keeping both players on the floor despite trailing by over 30 points.
A win by the Lakers on Friday against the Phoenix Suns will guarantee them the No. 4 spot. Depending on how the Denver Nuggets do in their remaining two games, LA still has a chance of moving up to No. 3.
If JJ Redick’s team lands at No. 4, it’ll face the Houston Rockets. If the Lakers climb to No. 3, a rematch with the Minnesota Timberwolves is in the books.
Even if Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are cleared to play, both teams will be tough matchups. Without both, the Lakers will be clear underdogs.
Fans Divided Over JJ Redick’s Statement About Teams Wanting To Play Lakers in Playoffs
JJ Redick’s statement about opposing teams’ excitement to play the LA Lakers gained traction. One fan wrote:
“I am not sure they want Lakers smoke when Luka and AR15 gets back.”
Another fan added:
“JJ knows they’re cooked.”
One more fan continued:
“Yes. U ran Luka and Reaves into the ground of a game u were down by 30. U get what u deserve.”
Another fan commented:
“Be careful what u ask for.”
One fan tweeted:
“They wanted to play yall b4 injuries too.”
While some fans expressed confidence in the Lakers due to Doncic and Reaves’ potential return, many are not as optimistic. A possible appearance by the two guards undoubtedly makes the Lakers stronger, but a series win isn’t a guarantee.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball and college baseball.
