The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing to enter Year 1 of the JJ Redick era.
While it’s virtually impossible to assess Redick’s coaching style, 20-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion Lebron James gave the media his early impressions of the Lakers’ new head coach.
"We haven't really got to work yet," James told the Sporting Tribune's Mark Medina on Monday. "We haven't actually had practice, but I know from being alongside him (Redick) and having our (podcast), and him being a competitor, I know he's super-detailed when it comes to that. Going against him in the past, that's what it's all about. Putting the work in and being detailed. Knowing exactly what we're going to do when we're out on the floor not only in game situations but in practice, film sessions, everything. That's something I know that he (can do)."
Redick, who retired from the NBA in 2021 after playing 15 seasons with six different franchises, has earned respect from the longest-tenured active NBA player. Redick and James matched up 35 times on the hardwood, with James’ squad prevailing in 24 clashes.
In March, Redick collaborated with James in the podcasting world, creating the Mind the Game with LeBron James and JJ Redick show. As a former three-point shooting mastermind who studied various ways to gain freedom on the perimeter, Redick had the opportunity to explain complex concepts to his viewers.
However, as the man in charge in Los Angeles, Redick must do more than deal with the Xs and Os. While he's already identified the Lakers’ starting five heading into the preseason, Redick must experiment with different lineups to ensure the players on the floor complement each other to some degree. Additionally, Redick will be tasked with managing James’ minutes during the regular season, considering the nightly NBA grind can take a toll on a player entering his 22nd campaign.
For now, though, James appears to have faith in Redick's ability to come in and positively impact the Lakers’ organization.
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