Lakers fight to the finish, but get eliminated by Thunder
Los Angeles Times
Last updated: May 12, 2026
This article discusses the Los Angeles Lakers' mindset and performance heading into a critical game where they were on the brink of elimination. Coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of "winning the day" to the team.
- The Lakers were facing elimination on Monday night, making that single day paramount for their season.
- The team reportedly embraced this singular focus, aiming to approach each moment with intensity and a winning mentality.
- This approach aimed to shift their focus from the overwhelming pressure of elimination to the controllable task of performing well in the present.
- The narrative suggests that Redick's coaching philosophy centers on immediate execution and a day-by-day improvement strategy rather than solely dwelling on long-term outcomes or past failures.
- The article implies that this mindset was intended to galvanize the players and help them overcome the psychological challenge of being close to elimination.
- The expectation was that by concentrating on "winning the day," the Lakers would be better positioned to achieve the necessary victory.
- The success of this strategy would hinge on the team's ability to translate this focused mindset into tangible on-court performance during the crucial game.
- The overall sentiment is that the Lakers were attempting to leverage a positive, present-focused approach to combat the pressure of a do-or-die situation.
