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The Los Angeles Waves are back on the court, and according to the critics, they are playing better than ever. Netflix has officially released the second season of Running Point, the sports-management comedy starring Kate Hudson and created by the powerhouse duo of Mindy Kaling and Ike Barinholtz.
While the first season was a solid hit for the streamer in 2025, the 2026 return has achieved something rarely seen in the world of streaming sitcoms: a “Sophomore Surge” in critical acclaim. Rotten Tomatoes scores for the new season have climbed significantly, with many critics labeling it one of the smartest and most binge-worthy comedies in the current Netflix catalog.
A New Standard for Streaming Comedy
The buzz surrounding the return of Running Point isn’t just about the star power of Kate Hudson; it’s about a noticeable jump in quality. The latest reviews highlight a sharper, more focused script that dives deeper into the high-stakes world of professional basketball management.
Critics have pointed out that the show has successfully moved past its initial “fish-out-of-water” setup. Isla Gordon, played with infectious energy by Hudson, is no longer just trying to survive the boardroom—she is mastering it. The narrative has shifted toward a more serialized and intense look at family dynamics and corporate maneuvering, making each 30-minute episode feel vital and fast-paced.
The Ray Romano Effect and Fresh Faces
A major highlight of the new season is the arrival of TV veteran Ray Romano. Joining the cast as Coach Norm Stinson, Romano provides a perfect, grounded foil to the high-energy chaos of the Gordon family. His presence has been cited as a primary reason for the show’s improved “emotional depth,” giving Kate Hudson a seasoned partner to play against in some of the season’s most pivotal scenes.
Beyond Romano, the season features a star-studded lineup of guest appearances, including Octavia Spencer, Lisa Rinna, and several real-life legends from the NBA world. These cameos aren’t just fluff; they add a layer of “Hollywood Authenticity” that makes the fictional Los Angeles Waves feel like a real franchise with real consequences.
Why Audiences are Binging Season 2
The appeal of Running Point in 2026 lies in its ability to balance “Aspirational Luxury” with relatable workplace struggles. The show looks more expensive and polished than its predecessor, thanks in part to the creative consulting of real-life Lakers President Jeanie Buss.
Viewers are also responding to the expanded roles of the supporting cast. Brenda Song, as the sharp-witted Ali Lee, and Drew Tarver, as the eccentric Sandy Gordon, have been given more substantial storylines. This ensemble approach ensures that the show remains engaging even when Hudson isn’t on screen, creating a richer world that fans are eager to inhabit for multiple episodes at a time.
The Road Ahead: Will There Be a Season 3?
With the show currently dominating the Netflix Top 10 and boasting its best reviews to date, the conversation has already turned toward a third season. While Netflix has not made an official announcement yet, the momentum is undeniably in the show’s favor.
For fans of Kate Hudson, this series has become more than just a “rom-com” pivot; it is a showcase of her ability to lead a long-form comedy with both heart and grit. Running Point has successfully avoided the “sophomore slump” and established itself as a cornerstone of Netflix’s comedy lineup for 2026.
If you haven’t started the new season yet, the critical consensus is clear: the Los Angeles Waves have never looked better, and Kate Hudson is officially at the top of her game.
