Luka Doncic calls for change on Lakers after getting routed by Rockets

Are the Los Angeles Lakers in deeper trouble than they seem to be?

The Lakers suffered their third consecutive defeat after getting manhandled by the Houston Rockets, 119-96, at Crypto.com Arena on Christmas Day. While it was not exactly a season-altering loss, frustrations seem to be simmering under the surface.

After the game, Luka Doncic admitted that he should be leading by example when it comes to making a stronger effort. But he also noted that they need to shake things up.

“I don’t know what has to change, but definitely something needs to change,” said Doncic in a video posted by So Cal News Group’s Khobi Price.

“We have to figure (it) out, that’s the thing we have (to do). Everybody has to talk about it. I know JJ (Redick) said it’s going to be uncomfortable. As (it) should be.”

Luka Doncic: "I don't know what has to change, but definitely something needs to change…We got to figure out, that's the thing we have [to do]. Everybody got to talk about it. I know JJ said it's going to be uncomfortable. As [it] should be." pic.twitter.com/43M3CYQfEx

— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) December 26, 2025

Defense could be the main agenda, as they have given up an average of 121.4 points in their last 10 games, losing six of them.

Doncic’s remarks echoed the comments of Jake LaRavia, who revealed that there’s a “disconnect” within the Lakers. Doncic, however, sounded more introspective than worried.

LeBron James already said it’s too premature to talk about the playoffs, stressing the need to stay in the present and iron out their wrinkles.

The Lakers dropped to 19-10, including 7-5 at home. The Minnesota Timberwolves have replaced them at the No. 4 spot in the Western Conference.

The Lakers have been hit by injuries over the past few weeks, with Doncic, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Deandre Ayton all missing time.

Reaves could sit out for an extended period after reaggravating his calf injury against the Rockets.

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