NBA Champion Predicts JJ Redick's Demise After Lakers Coach's Meltdown vs. Thunder

Former NBA player Jeff Teague believes Redick's harsh criticism of his undermanned Lakers squad could cost him his job.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured, multi-angled perspective of a heated confrontation between a basketball coach and player on the sideline, with the vibrant colors of their uniforms breaking down into sharp, overlapping planes.A tense sideline exchange between a coach and player reflects the Lakers' late-season struggles without their top stars.Oklahoma City Today

JJ Redick had a rough night as Lakers head coach, with his team getting blown out by the Oklahoma City Thunder and Redick engaging in heated confrontations with players on the sideline. Former NBA champion Jeff Teague believes Redick's public shaming of his players could lead to him being fired, urging the coach to take more accountability for the team's struggles.

Why it matters

Redick has built a reputation for being a demanding, detail-oriented coach, but his latest outburst may have crossed a line with his players and the organization. The Lakers are in a tight playoff race, and team chemistry will be crucial down the stretch without their top stars. Redick's job security is now in question.

The details

With the Lakers missing Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, they had little chance against the dominant Thunder. But Redick was still highly critical of role players Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt, subbing out Vanderbilt just 16 seconds into the second quarter after a heated sideline exchange. Redick also called out Deandre Ayton for his play. After the 123-87 loss, Redick said he's trying to 'find nine guys that are all in on fighting'.

  • The Lakers lost to the Thunder on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • The Lakers have just 3 games remaining before the playoffs.

The players

JJ Redick

The second-year head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers who is facing scrutiny for his harsh criticism of his players after a blowout loss.

Jeff Teague

A former NBA champion who believes Redick's actions could cost him his job with the Lakers.

Luka Dončić

The Lakers' star player who was absent due to a hamstring injury.

LeBron James

The Lakers' star player who was absent due to a foot injury.

Austin Reaves

The Lakers' star player who was absent due to an oblique injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“JJ won't be part of this team. He won't be their coach next year. He's gonna get fired. People are gonna stop liking him. As long as Luka like him, you good, but, man, he don't look like he's enjoying himself.”

— Jeff Teague, Former NBA Champion

“You gotta take the blame. I know he's just maybe running some bad plays.”

— Jeff Teague, Former NBA Champion

What’s next

The Lakers have just 3 games remaining before the playoffs, where team chemistry and camaraderie will be crucial with their top stars out.

The takeaway

Redick's harsh criticism of his undermanned Lakers squad, including heated confrontations with players on the sideline, has rubbed some the wrong way and could jeopardize his job security. As the Lakers fight for playoff positioning, Redick may need to take more accountability and focus on keeping his team united.