JJ Redick didn't hold back on the referees' treatment toward LeBron James following the Los Angeles Lakers' Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night.
James has built a historic career out of using his remarkable strength and athleticism to draw fouls against opponents. That remains the case when the playoffs come into play, as he tried to keep opposing defenses on their heels even at age 41.
However, there are times when James doesn't have his way. It also doesn't help him when he is absorbing contact, but the officials don't make the call. That happened multiple times throughout Game 2, which had Redick be critical of the officiating after the game.
“LeBron has the worst whistle of any star player I've ever seen,” Redick said, via reporter Daniel Starkand.
How LeBron James, Lakers played against Thunder
Article Continues Below
JJ Redick and LeBron James will hope for better officiating the remainder of the series. However, it doesn't change the fact that they missed a chance to steal a game on the road as the Thunder now lead 2-0 in the series.
Los Angeles was making progress as the team took a lead at halftime, something that Oklahoma City hasn't allowed at all this postseason. However, the hosts came alive with a 36-22 display in the third quarter and never looked back. As for the visitors, they turned the ball over multiple times and missed makeable shots that ended up costing them down the stretch.
Five players scored in double-digits for Los Angeles in the loss, including James. He finished with a stat line of 23 points, six assists, three steals, and two rebounds. He shot 9-of-18 from the field, including 1-of-4 from beyond the arc, and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. Austin Reaves led the team with 31 points and six assists, Rui Hachimura had 16 points and four rebounds, Marcus Smart put up 14 points and five assists, while Luke Kennard provided 10 points.
The Lakers will hope to avoid a 3-0 series deficit when they host the Thunder. Game 3 will take place on May 9 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
JJ Redick didn't hold back on the referees' treatment toward LeBron James following the Los Angeles Lakers' Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night. James has built a historic career out of using his remarkable strength and athleticism to draw fouls against opponents.