Los Angeles Lakers' head coach JJ Redick bashes NBA referees after controversial Game 4 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Los Angeles Lakers ’ narrow Game 4 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves ended in controversy, with head coach JJ Redick openly criticizing the officiating in the closing moments. A pivotal no-call in the final minute shifted momentum toward Minnesota, leaving the Lakers frustrated as they now face a 3-1 series deficit.

A disputed no-call decided the game’s outcome

With under a minute left and the Los Angeles Lakers trailing by one, Jaden McDaniels pressured Luka Doncic as he brought the ball up the court. Doncic stumbled and called a timeout, but no foul was called despite apparent contact. The Lakers then turned the ball over on the ensuing inbounds play, leading to Anthony Edwards sealing the win with free throws.

Lakers coach JJ Redick says the refs missed a ‘blatant trip’ down the stretch by Jaden McDaniels on Luka Doncic 😳

“Luka got tripped. That was a blatant trip. He doesn't just fall on his own. We should have been at the free throw line. He got fouled.”

pic.twitter.com/E7hTtfl5GR

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 27, 2025

JJ Redick was vocal postgame, arguing that Doncic was clearly fouled. “Luka got tripped,” he said. “That was a blatant trip. He doesn’t just fall on his own.” The Lakers, in the bonus at the time, would have had free throws to reclaim the lead if a foul had been whistled.

JJ Redick’s frustration highlights officiating inconsistencies

The Los Angeles Lakers’ coach doubled down in his press conference, insisting Doncic should have been at the line. While the NBA’s last-two-minute report will provide clarity later, the no-call became a turning point in a game decided by razor-thin margins. Minnesota capitalized on the opportunity, extending their lead via free throws while the Lakers’ chances slipped away.

The Los Angeles Lakers now face an uphill battle in the series

Despite the frustration over officiating, the Lakers must regroup quickly. Game 5 presents a must-win scenario to keep their playoff hopes alive. While JJ Redick’s complaints are valid, the team’s focus now shifts to adjustments and execution rather than dwelling on a call that won’t be reversed.

Also read: Los Angeles Lakers news: How many points did LeBron James score tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4 (April 27, 2025)

As the series returns to Minnesota, the Lakers will need more than just favorable whistles to extend their season—they’ll need their stars to deliver under pressure.