Lakers eliminated by Thunder after crushing Game 4 as LeBron James suffers rare sweep
New York Post
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Lakers coach JJ Redick discussed the unique challenges of close-out games in playoff series. He emphasized the mental and strategic difficulty of finishing an opponent when they are on the brink of elimination.
- The primary challenge in a close-out game, according to Redick, is the opponent's desperation. Teams facing elimination often play with heightened intensity and a "nothing to lose" mentality, making them dangerous.
- Redick suggested that the winning team must adopt a "kill them" mindset, implying a need for sustained aggression and focus to prevent the opponent from gaining momentum. This involves not allowing the opposing team any opportunity to rally or believe they can still win.
- The psychological aspect is paramount; maintaining composure and executing plays effectively under pressure is crucial. Teams must avoid complacency and continue to play at a high level, even when holding a series lead.
- Avoiding mental lapses and turnovers becomes even more critical in these high-stakes situations. The focus shifts from simply winning the game to definitively ending the series without giving the opponent a chance to force another contest.
