This season, JJ Redick has already cursed at his players and officials when they have been ignorant. Playoff Round 1, Game 3 against the Houston Rockets was no different, as the Los Angeles Lakers‘ head coach was frustrated with the officiating crew. This frustration stemmed from the home team’s Alperen Sengun apparently making multiple violations, and Redick unleashed an NSFW rant on the referees.

On Friday, while Amen Thompson shot a free throw, there was a lot of jostling happening. The officials called a foul on Deandre Ayton for dislodging Sengun. It happened twice and Sengun got just 1 FT each time. But the refs failed to notice that the Turkish center violated the rule by entering the free-throw lane before the shooter’s release. JJ Redick angrily complained and yelled, “He goes early, every f—-ng time!”

The Prime broadcast captured the NSFW statement, which was quickly followed by an overhead replay of a free throw where players from both teams were being physical. NBA free-throw rules bar lane occupants from crossing into or touching inside the restricted area before the ball leaves the shooter’s hand.

But simultaneous violations by both teams typically cancel the penalty and result in play continuing. Redick’s frustration wasn’t limited to that single moment, as throughout the game, Rockets bigs (including Sengun and others) shifted weight or took small steps forward as the shooter started his motion to earn any advantage. However, the refs didn’t use their whistles unless it was a clear lane violation.

Despite Kevin Durant’s absence due to a left ankle issue, the game was too close for comfort, as the Lakers only led by 5 at the end of the third quarter.

JJ Redick’s team eventually needed OT to defeat Houston and avoided blowing their 15-point lead at one stage. Sengun had the game-high score of 33 points, but his teammates from the bench combined for just 3 points. Veteran Lakers stars took advantage of this and secured the win in overtime.

LeBron James comes to JJ Redick’s rescue

LeBron James once again set the tone, finishing with 29 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists while playing over 45 minutes. The 41-year-old was clutch at the end of regulation, first stealing the ball from Sheppard with 19.8 seconds left and then hitting a three to tie the game at 101. He even gave himself a chance to be the hero in regulation, grabbing a final rebound for a potential game-winner, but the shot wouldn’t fall.

In OT, it was Marcus Smart and his crucial eight points that helped the Lakers win 112-108. Although LeBron James did not score in overtime, he still contributed. Bron blocked Sengun’s layup and also recorded another steal, dislodging the Turkish center. This was important because JJ Redick’s team rallied from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds remaining.

But now they can sweep the series Sunday night in Houston. The head coach will have to be careful, as the Lakers gave away 20 turnovers, but their veterans came through with some late-game scoring and defense.