Lakers coach JJ Redick has an insightful exchange with reporter

JJ Redick will have a lot of eyes on him this season as he begins his first year as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The former Duke superstar had a 15-year playing career and also had success in media and podcasting, but had never led a team.

This week, the Lakers opened training camp for the 2024-25 NBA season.

After a recent workout, Redick had an interesting exchange with a reporter (h/t @DevDock And Lakers Nation).

Reporter on Rui Hachimura: “Do you think he could take the next step for you?”

Redick: “What’s the next step?”

Reporter: “Tell me?”

Redick: “Tell me, you create the narrative… I don’t care what the next step is for Rui. It’s important to me how he influences our team’s victory.”

Given Redick’s background as a player (and in the media), his press conferences this season will likely turn a lot of heads.

The exchange from practice went viral on social media.

Hachimura is entering his third year with the Lakers.

Last season, he averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 53.7% from the field and 42.2% from three-point range in 68 games (39 starts). -Range shot.

He is one of the team’s key role players and helped them reach the 2023 Western Conference Finals.

The Lakers will play their first game of the season on October 22nd when they host Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves in Los Angeles.