Trail Blazers' comeback hero JJ Redick praised the Lakers for demonstrating strong team cohesion.

The Los Angeles Lakers rallied to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 124-118 in the group stage of the 2026/27 NBA Cup, thanks to contributions from Luka Doncic, Austin Reeves, and Walker Kessler. JJ Redick stated in an interview that his team displayed great resilience and teamwork during the game.

In their matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Los Angeles Lakers trailed in the first two quarters before gradually finding their rhythm in the third. In the crucial final moments of the fourth quarter, Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves delivered solid performances to seal the victory for the Lakers.

According to the data, Luka Doncic scored 53 points and 5 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers in this game, Austin Reeves scored 25 points and 2 assists, and Walker Kessler contributed 16 points and 2 assists.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said, "I think we're a very cohesive team, but it's impossible to become a resilient team after 10, 5, or even 20 games. So that resilience needs to be built up over the course of the season. I think the players responded very well after halftime, and we played very well in the third quarter."

“I just hope the team can execute better defensively at the start of the game. I wouldn’t call it a tactical adjustment; we’re just putting what we’ve discussed into practice better. So far this season, they’ve almost always responded after halftime and addressed the areas that needed improvement during the game.”

Redick pointed out, "During every timeout, we saw the team getting good shooting opportunities. This isn't just the coaching staff's opinion, because during every timeout we saw the players getting good opportunities. So we just stuck to our way of playing. Again, I think rebounding is a very important part of that. That's how we got scoring opportunities and created second chances."

"I think Luka Doncic had another outstanding performance. Of course, I think he and Austin Reeves both played very well."

In addition, Redick said, "Every player on our team has the ability to shoot and score, but Luka Doncic can do things that very few people, or even no one, can do. For example, when he shoots from three-quarters of the court away from the basket, you feel that the ball should at least hit the rim, or bounce a few times on the rim. If it doesn't even hit the rim, it would be surprising."

“We committed four turnovers in transition offense, and there are many areas where we can do better. It’s a long process, and we need time to become a truly great team. But I’m pleased that the players have responded positively to the challenges they face.”

Redick added, "This team has a strong sense of cohesion and has shown a certain level of resilience. This is exciting, and I hope the team can continue to solidify and develop this quality."

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