JJ Redick is currently in his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers as the team's head coach. Redick has the opportunity to coach arguably the best NBA player of all-time in LeBron James. While speaking to reporters on Friday, Redick revealed when he first knew that LeBron was on track to become a "great" NBA player, via Lakers Nation.
"I played against LeBron in high school," Redick said. "So I knew that he was going to be great in the NBA."
Redick has known that LeBron was going to find success in the NBA for a long time. James ended up getting drafted out of high school and immediately emerged as a star at the NBA level. Redick certainly was not the only person who predicted James' future success.
LeBron did not play on Saturday, but the Lakers still defeated the Sacramento Kings by a final score 132-122. The Lakers have now won five of their past six games overall. LA is clearly beginning to find their rhythm, and Redick is doing everything he can to lead the team.
Redick, as mentioned, is in his first season as the Lakers' head coach. In fact, he is currently in the first season as a head coach in the NBA. Redick is still developing as a head coach in the league. With LeBron on the team, though, the job is likely easier as James already has respect around the team. There is clearly respect between Redick and James as well.
LeBron James' impact on Lakers is extremely important
James is averaging 23.5 points per game on 49.6 percent field goal and 35.7 percent three-point shooting this season. LeBron is also recording 9.0 assists and 7.9 rebounds per outing.
James' veteran leadership also plays a big role without question. His leadership is surely helpful for Redick as he navigates his way through his first NBA season as a head coach. He can also offer advice for younger players on the team.
The Lakers are now 18-13 and in fifth place in the Western Conference standings. Los Angeles has an opportunity to become a realistic contender in the West. Consistency was a concern earlier in the 2024-25 campaign, so as long as they can remain consistent then the Lakers should be alright as the season moves forward.
The Lakers' next game is scheduled for Tuesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Los Angeles.