The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move in their coaching staff by hiring former NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick as their head coach.

This decision has garnered attention and excitement from fans and players alike. Lakers star Austin Reaves, a key player and Arkansas native, has shared his thoughts on this new addition, expressing optimism and enthusiasm for working with Redick.

In a recent interview, Reaves was asked about his reaction to Redick’s hiring. His response was nothing short of praise for the new coach.

“Yeah, I’ve gotten to know JJ a little bit, going on his podcast during the middle of the year. He’s a basketball genius, I think as everybody knows. And I think he’s gonna make a good coach and I can’t wait to get to work with him.

He actually texted me yesterday and wanted to get on a call. So like I said, I just can’t wait to put our brains together and go have a good year,” Reaves commented.

This endorsement from Reaves underscores the respect and excitement that Redick’s presence brings to the Lakers. Redick, known for his exceptional shooting ability and high basketball IQ during his playing career, has transitioned smoothly into the world of coaching and analysis.

His podcasts, “The Old Man and the Three” and “Mind the Game” with Lebron James, have been a platform where he shares his insights on the game, often featuring current and former players, including Reaves.

The Lakers’ decision to bring Redick on board is seen as a strategic move to bolster their coaching staff with a fresh perspective. Redick’s analytical approach and firsthand experience in the modern NBA game are expected to be invaluable assets to the team’s development, particularly in enhancing their shooting efficiency and overall offensive strategies.

Reaves’ familiarity with Redick, stemming from their interactions on Redick’s podcast, has evidently laid a positive foundation for their professional relationship. The young guard’s acknowledgment of Redick as a “basketball genius” reflects the widespread admiration for Redick’s understanding of the game.

Reaves’ eagerness to collaborate and learn from Redick highlights his openness to growth and improvement, which bodes well for the Lakers’ aspirations in the upcoming season.

The offseason: Lakers edition
JJ Redick
© Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports
The Lakers have had a busy offseason, making several changes to their coaching staff. Redick’s hiring is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the team and position them for a strong playoff run. With a roster featuring stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the addition of Redick to the coaching staff aims to optimize the team’s performance, particularly in areas where they have struggled in recent seasons.

Redick’s expertise in shooting mechanics and his ability to dissect defenses will be crucial in addressing one of the Lakers’ primary weaknesses: three-point shooting. Last season, the Lakers ranked among the lower tiers in the league in terms of three-point percentage and attempts. Redick’s presence is expected to help rectify this issue, providing players with the necessary guidance and techniques to improve their long-range shooting.

Moreover, Redick’s experience as a player who consistently adapted to different roles and systems throughout his career will be beneficial in mentoring younger players like Reaves. His journey from being a collegiate star at Duke to carving out a successful NBA career serves as an inspirational blueprint for players striving to make their mark in the league.

Reaves’ comments also shed light on the communication and rapport that Redick has already established with the players. By reaching out to Reaves for a call, Redick demonstrates his proactive approach to building relationships and understanding the needs and strengths of his players.

This level of engagement is crucial for fostering a cohesive team environment and ensuring that players are aligned with the coaching staff’s vision and strategies.

As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, the anticipation surrounding Redick’s impact continues to build. Fans and analysts are eager to see how his contributions will translate on the court.

The combination of his sharp basketball mind and the talent within the Lakers’ roster sets the stage for a promising season.

In conclusion, Austin Reaves’ reaction to JJ Redick’s hiring encapsulates the optimism and excitement that permeates the Lakers organization. Reaves’ recognition of Redick as a basketball genius and his enthusiasm for working with him highlight the positive dynamics at play.

As the Lakers embark on this new chapter with Redick on their coaching staff, the team’s prospects for success appear brighter, fueled by a blend of experience, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.