JJ Redick believes the Lakers are close to contending for the title despite getting swept

Unfortunately, the Thunder's quality won out with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Ajay Mitchell all playing at an elite level. Now, the Lakers have to go back to the drawing board after getting swept.

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Since he is looking like the long-term head coach for the Lakers, Redick is already looking forward to the future. Some fans might be frustrated with him after that Hachimura blunder, but it seems he is focused on turning the Lakers into a contender again.

"That's what we gotta figure out this offseason. I will say for the things that we set out to do, and build our championship habits, communication, and shape, I thought we were darn close to doing that," Redick said after the Game 4 loss to OKC.

"I take a lot of pride in our players. What they individually went through, what we went through, and what we turned out to be. Just proud of who we are."

It is a bittersweet ending for the Lakers, especially since Luka Doncic was absent due to his injury. Anything would have been possible if a player of his caliber was present, but the Lakers could not resolve his absence. Moving forward, he will be the centerpiece of this Lakers organization.

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