JJ Redick Blasts Officiating After Lakers’ Game 2 Loss to Thunder as Reaves Confronts Referee

Posted : 08 May 2026

Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick strongly criticised the officiating after his team’s 125-107 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series.

Redick voiced his frustration during his postgame press conference, arguing that the Thunder play aggressively without consistently being penalised. He said the physical nature of their defence makes them difficult to face, but insisted fouls must be properly called when they occur.

His comments came after he had already been assessed a technical foul earlier in the game for protesting missed calls, which he believed were not going in the Lakers’ favour.

The coach also focused on the treatment of LeBron James, claiming the veteran star has not been receiving fair officiating throughout the series. He noted that James, who typically draws frequent fouls during the regular season, has been sent to the free-throw line only a handful of times so far in the playoffs.

Redick argued that James is often subjected to heavy contact on drives without drawing whistles, saying the physical punishment he endures is rarely rewarded by referees.

James finished Game 2 with 23 points and six assists but showed visible frustration at several decisions during the match, including missed foul calls and overturned plays. However, when asked about officiating, he kept his response brief, simply acknowledging the series deficit.

The frustration extended to teammate Austin Reaves, who confronted referee John Goble during the fourth quarter after a disputed call changed possession in Oklahoma City’s favour.

Reaves explained that he felt disrespected during the exchange, claiming the official raised his voice at him during a stoppage in play. He said he responded respectfully but believed the situation was handled poorly by the referee.

Despite the tension, Oklahoma City maintained control of the game after winning a key jump ball and extending their lead with a three-pointer that shifted momentum decisively in their favour.

Reaves, who delivered a standout 31-point performance, said he had no issue with expressing frustration but insisted players should be treated with respect during emotional moments in high-pressure games.

Redick, however, defended his team’s reactions, saying emotions are a natural part of basketball. He also suggested that Oklahoma City’s composed style may contribute to how games are officiated, as the defending champions rarely show visible complaints toward referees.

Statistically, the game remained relatively balanced in terms of fouls and free throws, but the Lakers felt several key decisions swung momentum in critical moments.

Lakers forward Rui Hachimura echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating that the team cannot control officiating and must instead focus on playing through adversity.

With the Thunder now holding a 2-0 series lead, the Lakers head into the next game needing a response both on the court and in managing the growing frustration surrounding officiating decisions.

JJ Redick Blasts Officiating After Lakers’ Game 2 Loss to Thunder as Reaves Confronts Referee

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