Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed guard Austin Reaves’ mounting turnover issues following a string of difficult performances, including consecutive games with eight turnovers. Speaking ahead of a matchup against the Toronto Raptors in an interview reported by EssentiallySports, Redick analyzed the tactical factors behind the guard’s struggles on the floor.
The scrutiny intensified after a 112-95 loss to the Golden State Warriors on a Sunday, during which Los Angeles surrendered a 25-point first-quarter lead. Reaves offered a blunt self-assessment after the final buzzer, telling reporters, “I was terrible again. That’s it.” The defeat left the Lakers grappling with broader execution problems, but attention immediately zeroed in on Reaves’ ball-security woes as his role expands alongside Luka Doncic.
Tactical Pressures and Defensive Traps
Redick explained that opposing teams have adjusted their defensive schemes to send persistent help defenders, and occasionally third defenders, directly at Reaves. This increased defensive attention forces split-second decisions that have triggered a spike in turnovers.
“A lot of it is second body, right? A lot of the turnovers are second body, could be a pass to the roller, and there’s the roll man that the low man is there, and the reach should have been out to the three-point shooter in the corner,” Redick said at his press conference. The coach emphasized that Reaves must sharpen his read progressions when traps arrive to locate open shooters.
Roster Turnover and Chemistry Challenges
Beyond individual decision-making, Redick pointed to the Lakers’ heavily revamped roster as a significant contributing factor. The franchise added nine new rotation players during the offseason, including Walker Kessler, Kevon Looney, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton.
Integrating multiple new pieces demands time, particularly for a guard whose efficiency relies on precise timing with pick-and-roll partners. Reaves must adapt to the specific tendencies and rolling speeds of teammates he has played with for only a few months, increasing the margin for error on passing lanes.
Rising Workload and Upward Turnover Trends
The statistical trajectory highlights a clear correlation between increased responsibility and ball-security challenges. Reaves averaged 2.4 turnovers per game during the 2024-25 campaign, saw that number rise to 3.0 the following season, and has watched his average climb to 4.8 through his first six appearances of the current season.
While Redick’s breakdown offers necessary tactical context rather than a blanket excuse, the Lakers face mounting pressure to stabilize their rotation. Reaves and the coaching staff are working daily to refine his court vision and decision speed as the team navigates the early-season schedule.