Skip Bayless tears into LeBron James’ Lakers for ‘inexcusable’ loss against Pistons: “JJ, gotta light a fire” (Credit: Lakers/X and Skip Bayless/X)

Veteran NBA analyst Skip Bayless criticized the LeBron James-led Lakers for their “inexcusable” 115-103 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Monday. JJ Redick’s team struggled with energy and effort as the Pistons outworked them on hustle plays and rebounding. The Purple and Gold slipped to a 4-3 record on the season after suffering third loss in their ongoing five-game road trip.

Following the game, Skip urged coach Redick to motivate his players after they were outplayed by the Pistons.

“LeBron’s Lakers just failed to show up and lost at Detroit by 12,” Skip said in a tweet on X (formerly Twitter). “Crushed on the boards, 55-37. Pistons: 17 offensive boards. Just inexcusable. Hey, JJ, gotta light a fire under your squad.”

The Lakers’ bench fell short against the Pistons, with Jaxson Hayes and Dalton Knecht accounting for all 10 points scored by the reserves. LeBron James and Co. trailed by 20 points and despite a late push, couldn’t pull off another comeback victory. Skip pointed out that the Lakers are a much stronger team than they appeared to be in this recent loss.

“The Lakers are so much better than they played tonight. So disappointing. Such a bad early sign,” Skip said in a another tweet.

The veteran analyst echoed coach Redick’s critique regarding the team’s lack of defensive intensity, particularly at the start of the game.

“JJRedick just said he wished his team would’ve started the game at Detroit “with more pride on defense.” BOOM. Love that. LeBron and AD probably won’t, which is good,” said Skip.

JJ Redick reflects on Lakers loss against Pistons

Lakers coach JJ Redick offered a frank assessment of his team’s performance following a loss in a game they were expected to win, given the talent disparity between the two rosters. Redick emphasized that the entire locker room felt disappointed by the defeat.

“We’re all disappointed,” Redick said after the game.

The Lakers will have an opportunity to bounce back from their demoralizing loss and finish their road trip on a strong note when they cross swords against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday.