Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said his team can still win their playoff series despite falling behind 3-0 [1].
The Lakers face an unprecedented challenge because no NBA team has ever rallied from a 3-0 deficit to win a series [2]. A failure to mount a comeback would result in an immediate exit from the second-round playoffs.
The team's precarious position follows a Game 3 loss on May 9, 2026, where the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Lakers 131-108 [3]. The game took place in Oklahoma City, leaving the Lakers on the brink of elimination [3].
Redick said he is not giving up on the squad despite the historical odds. The coach said the team can still mount a successful comeback to advance in the postseason [2].
The Lakers must now win four consecutive games to secure the series victory. This requires a complete reversal of momentum against a Thunder team that has dominated the first three matchups [1], [3].
While the statistical probability of a victory is low, Redick remains focused on the potential for his players to execute under pressure. The team will look to adjust their strategy to prevent another high-scoring loss like the one seen in Game 3 [3].
“no NBA team has ever rallied from a 3-0 deficit”
The Lakers are attempting to achieve a feat that is statistically nonexistent in NBA history. By maintaining a positive public stance, Redick is attempting to prevent a total locker room collapse, though the 23-point margin of defeat in Game 3 suggests a significant tactical gap between the two rosters.
