Inside the Lakers’ postgame frustration: LeBron James reacts to JJ Redick’s viral officiating remarks

Following the Los Angeles Lakers' 125–107 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, May 7, the head coach and guard Austin Reaves publicly criticized the officiating during the game.

As a result of losing Game 2, the Lakers now trail 2-0 in the series. Besides losing victory, the game proved to be highly contentious.

The tension centered on a discrepancy in how the game was called, showing a visible split among the Lakers’ leadership in handling the media. The Lakers’ head coach JJ Redick, while speaking to the reporter, sparked a viral moment by claiming “James receives the worst whistle of any star player” he has seen.

He also argued that James’s size and strength mask the fouls he endures, noting he has only shot five free throws through the first two games of the series.

“I’ve been with him for two years now. The smaller guys, because they can be theatric, they typically draw more fouls. And the bigger players that are built like LeBron, it’s hard for them,” he added

Austin Reeves, who led the Lakers with 31 points, had also been witnessed exchanging heated arguments with officials, especially referee John Goble.

According to Reeves, he was disrespected by Goble, alleging the official yelled in his face during a jump ball dispute. He also suggested if he had adopted the same behaviour towards an official, he would have received a technical foul.

On the contrary, LeBron James chose to remain calm instead of indulging himself in heated exchanges. While talking to the media, James said, "We're down 2-0.”

When asked to comment on JJ Redick’s viral comments on officiating, he responded, “ I don't know.”

Talking about the series outlook, the Thunder remain undefeated in the 2026 postseason with 6-0 and have never lost a playoff series after taking a 2-0 lead.

Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, in Los Angeles.