Here’s a bold statement: the Los Angeles Lakers’ recent struggles aren’t just about injuries or bad luck—they’re about a deeper, more troubling issue: selfish play. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about individual talent; it’s about the lack of team chemistry that’s holding them back. Let’s dive in.
On January 2, 2026, the Lakers secured a 128-121 win against the Memphis Grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena, with LeBron James, Jake LaRavia, and Luka Doncic leading the charge. But despite these standout performances, the team has lost four of their last five games, including embarrassing defeats to the Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Hornets. But here’s where it gets controversial—is it fair to blame these losses solely on injuries, or is there something more systemic at play?
NBA analyst and former player Kendrick Perkins thinks it’s the latter. He argues that the Lakers are playing as individuals, not as a cohesive unit. Perkins bluntly stated, ‘That’s a bunch of individuals. That’s showing up to work, do your job, everybody go their own way, and that’s how they perform on the floor.’ He highlights their defensive struggles as a symptom of this disconnect, pointing out that great teams thrive on chemistry both on and off the court—something the Lakers seem to lack.
Here’s the kicker: Perkins even questioned whether the Lakers players hang out outside of games. ‘Did you just have the audacity to call the Lakers a team?’ he asked on NBA Today. ‘That’s not a team, that’s a bunch of individuals. I’m willing to bet there’s no group chat, no team dinners on the road.’ This lack of camaraderie, he suggests, is why they’re failing to stop opponents from scoring easy baskets and open three-pointers.
While LeBron James and Luka Doncic are putting up impressive stats, their individual success isn’t translating into team victories. And this is the part most people miss—great stats don’t always equal great teamwork. The Lakers’ hot start to the season set high expectations, but their recent lackluster play has them slipping further behind the Western Conference’s elite teams.
With Austin Reaves set to return soon, the Lakers will have their ‘Big Three’ intact. But will that be enough? Perkins argues that unless they address their chemistry and defensive issues, even a superstar trio might not save them. The trade deadline could offer a solution, but with limited assets, the Lakers seem hesitant to make bold moves. Instead, they’re likely sticking with their current core for the rest of the season.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a team with this much individual talent but so little cohesion ever truly contend for a title? Or is Perkins right—do the Lakers need to fundamentally change how they operate as a unit to succeed? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. The Lakers’ future depends on it.
