In a stunning coaching move, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick played the same five players for the entire second half of Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Dorian Finney-Smith logged all 24 minutes after halftime, as Redick bet everything on continuity and chemistry in a must-win playoff situation.

Facing a determined Timberwolves squad, Redick chose not to substitute once in the second half, showing ultimate trust in his core group. The lineup brought a blend of shot creation, defensive toughness, and veteran leadership, allowing the Lakers to stay competitive deep into the game.

The decision drew a mix of admiration and concern. While some praised Redick’s willingness to ride the hot hands and stay aggressive, others pointed out the risks of fatigue, especially for veterans like LeBron James, who continues to shoulder heavy playoff minutes deep into his 21st season.

Despite the heavy load, the five-man unit kept pace with Minnesota, exchanging runs and big plays down the stretch. While the Lakers ultimately fell short, the team's resilience and unity under Redick’s leadership have given the Lakers a fighting spirit that could carry into the rest of the series.

It was a gutsy move from a first-year head coach—and one that shows Redick is not afraid to trust his instincts on the biggest stage.