LeBron James addressed questions about his commitment after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Atlanta Hawks 141–116 at Crypto.com Arena. Legend’s response came hours after L.A’s HC JJ Redick publicly pushed back against questions surrounding James’ availability and effort in his 23rd season.
Tuesday’s victory finally ended a three-game losing streak for L. A came on the second night of a back-to-back. James was listed as questionable due to ongoing foot and back soreness. He ultimately played and led the Lakers in a wire-to-wire victory.
LeBron James’ Clear Response to JJ Redick After Hawks Game
Redick spoke to reporters during his postgame media session inside the Lakers’ locker room. He said James made the decision to play, and the coaching staff had prepared for him to sit.
He then addressed how James is often discussed publicly at this stage of his career.
“His competitive stamina is off the charts,” Redick said after the game on January 14. “It’s actually unfortunate how much this guy puts into it and how much he cares and the way certain people talk about him. It’s crazy. Come be around him every day and see how much this guy cares. It’s off the charts.”
HC’s stance followed recent scrutiny over James’s appearance on injury reports during back-to-backs. James stated earlier in January 2026 that his status would be evaluated game by game due to workload management. Redick rejected the idea that this reflects a lack of commitment, pointing instead to James’ daily preparation and leadership.
James responded later during his own postgame interview at Crypto.com Arena. He focused on impact rather than criticism.
“I just hope that once I’m done that I made an impact for the people that follow my career and watch me, my fans that’s been locked down with me for over 23 years since I kinda started this journey as a high school freshman,” James said after the Hawks game. “That’s all that matters. My crew that’s been with me and everything else doesn’t matter.”
Lebron responds:
"I just hope that once I'm done that I made an impact for the people that follow my career and watch me, my fans that's been locked down with me for over 23 years since I kinda started this journey as a high school freshman. That's all that matters: My crew… https://t.co/56QjLnl5xO pic.twitter.com/aJXVe6HKiE
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) January 14, 2026
LBJ’s performance matched his message. He finished with 31 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists while shooting 12-of-20 from the field. He led a 17–0 Lakers run in the second quarter and helped build a 32-point lead in the third.
Luka Dončić added 27 points and 12 assists despite playing through groin soreness. As of now, the Lakers improved to 24–14 and remained in the upper half of the Western Conference standings.
James continues to produce while maintaining a focused approach. The schedule moves forward. The conversation stays the same.
