Home » Sports » NBA » Los Angeles Lakers

JJ Redick Sends Strong Message to Lakers Starter Amid Troubling Trend

Despite the Lakers' 4-1 start, JJ Redick isn't happy with one starter's performance — and a surprising NBA ranking explains why.

By Alder Almo · HEAVY

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 1:32 PM

Key Things to Know

JJ Redick challenged starting center Walker Kessler to significantly improve his defensive rebounding rate.
The Lakers entered Wednesday ranked last in the NBA in team rebounding, averaging 38.0 boards per game.
Redick cited Dwight Howard's ability to rebound outside his airspace as an example for Kessler to follow.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick challenged starting center Walker Kessler to improve on the defensive glass, invoking former NBA star Dwight Howard as an example of pursuing rebounds outside his airspace. The call-out came as the Lakers ranked last in the league in rebounding, averaging 38.0 boards across their first five games.

Kessler responded in Wednesday's 103-87 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, tallying 11 points, nine rebounds, two steals, and one block in 26 minutes. The Lakers improved to 4-1 on the season despite missing Luka Doncic and Ziaire Williams, while outrebounding the Clippers 48-41.

Read the full article on HEAVY

JJ Redick Sends Strong Message to Lakers Starter Amid Troubling Trend

More Los Angeles Lakers News

Never Miss a Sports Update