Lakers lose to Trail Blazers as perimeter defense draws criticism from coach Redick

Los Angeles Lakers recorded their first defeat of the 2026-27 season, falling 136-129 to the unbeaten Portland Trail Blazers. The game featured high shooting percentages from both sides, with each team shooting near 65 percent at one point, but Portland's defense ultimately prevailed.

Luka Dončić led the Lakers' offense with 41 points, following a 52-point performance in the previous game. Despite having perimeter defenders such as Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, the Lakers allowed four Portland players to score 20 or more points.

"We just got broken down a lot. I thought the game plan, personnel discipline, wasn't where it needs to be. I think, sometimes early in the season, these are good learning lessons we can all apply as coaches and players," coach JJ Redick said after the loss.

Portland's perimeter scoring, highlighted by Damian Lillard and Ja Morant, exposed the Lakers' defensive lapses, an area Redick said the team must improve moving forward.