JJ Redick knew that handling the Los Angeles Lakers would be a tough first challenge in his professional coaching career. The former Duke Blue Devil knew that the fans expect nothing but a deep playoff run with a team that features both LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the roster.
While the first couple of games have been kind to the Purple and Gold, the most recent matches haven’t been as manageable as fans hoped. They’ve lost four of their last five games, and Redick is understandably upset with how his team is responding to the challenges they’re facing in a tough Western Conference.
JJ Redick doesn’t seem to be in a good mood after that performance by the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/pNg6h7S49r
— Edwin Garcia (@ECreates88) November 7, 2024
While some fans are worried with how the rookie head coach is handling his emotions, others are worried with how players like D’Angelo Russell are failing to step up against better opposition.
JJ Redick shares his honest thoughts about D’Angelo Russell’s performance, effort levels
During a post-game interview in Los Angeles’ 131-114 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, Redick explained why he was disappointed with Russell and the rest of the team.
Per Edwin Garcia of Silver Screen & Roll:
“Just level of compete, attention to detail, some of the things we’ve have talked with him about for a couple of weeks,” Redick said. “And at times, he’s been really good with that stuff and other times, it’s just reverting back to certain habits. It wasn’t like a punishment. I just felt like for us to have a chance to win this game, that was the route we wanted to take.”
A quick peek at Russell’s stat line justifies Redick’s frustrations with him. The former second-overall pick finished with 12 points at an atrocious 33% while only providing three assists in 21 minutes of play. His performance gave JJ Redick enough justification to pull him off the squad for the remainder of the Lakers’ loss.
This is far from the toughest challenge the former TV analyst and podcast host will face in his coaching career. However, he needs to figure out how to effectively handle pressure or he will be out of a job by this time next year.
For More Content
For questions and opportunities, message me at c.alamodin.writes@gmail.com. Click here for more content about your favorite NBA, WNBA, and college basketball teams!
