Having synergy between two superstars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James is undisputedly vital. However, with James being so close to the end of his career, there is another Los Angeles Lakers partnership that stands out as more crucial for the long-term future. That would be Doncic and his head coach JJ Redick.
It was announced in the past week that the Lakers had given Redick a brand-new contract extension with the franchise. At Lakers Media Day, Doncic was asked by a reporter to offer his thoughts on the news. The Lakers superstar shared his excitement with the room.
Doncic said, "The stability is amazing. It was great to work with JJ. Hopefully we can work until the end of my career. I just love him as my coach. He will tell you anything. He will tell you if you did something wrong, if you did something good. The approach to the game with him is unbelievable."
Luka finished off his statement expressing how excited he was that JJ was his coach. Having a franchise player align well with his head coach is always an important part of any championship formula. It sure appears as though the Lakers have that with Doncic and Redick.
JJ Redick and Luka Doncic are clicking faster than anyone imagined
Redick has a very unapologetic coaching style where he can be loud and expressive, never shying away from expressing his emotions. That can rub some players the wrong way. It does not sound like Doncic is one of those guys.
In fact, Luka's comments made him come off as appreciative for that style. That should spell success for the Lakers' future.
Some were concerned when Redick took the direct approach in addressing the lack of 'championship shape' for the Lakers after last season's postseason exit. Many believed those comments, in one way or another, were directed at the franchise superstar.
What followed was a well-publicized offseason body transformation for Doncic. If those words were meant for Luka, they were heard and received with strong consideration, and not any ill will.
The next task for Redick will be continuing to maximize the system around Doncic, both offensively and defensively. In only his second season, the Lakers coach will face pressure that few in the NBA can truly compare to.
The comforting thought for him can be that the face of the Lakers has his back. That should be plenty of reassurance for Redick to continue to develop his brand of coaching with this year's roster.