Lakers head coach JJ Redick dropped a comment during preseason media day that everyone immediately thought was a direct shot at LeBron James. He said the 2026 roster was “probably the first time in my three years here, that I feel like the pieces actually fit together.” Talk about setting off fireworks, right?
Redick Says He Wasn’t Throwing Shade at LeBron, Promise!
Redick had to clarify things real quick, because that statement looked a lot like he was talking down last year’s squad, and by extension, one of the biggest names in the game. But nah, Redick insists he meant it as a compliment to the entire roster construction, not a jab at the past. He was talking about having real depth, you know? Multiple ball handlers beyond just Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Guys like newcomers Colin Sexton and Quentin Grimes, plus more volume shooting. He even mentioned an elite rim protector and getting a bunch of great wing defenders. He was super hyped about the wing group’s defense and their ability to hit open 3s. As he put it, “you don’t become a championship team (in late September). You have to become one throughout the season.” That’s the long game, folks.
Why the Lakers Roster Changes Actually Matter For Everyone
So, what are these “pieces” Redick is so pumped about? The Lakers signed a whole bunch of players, including Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, Walker Kessler, Zaire Williams, Matisse Thybulle, and Collin Sexton. These guys are supposed to bring in serious wing depth, defensive switchability, and floor spacing. The idea is to complement stars Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic, who are still handling most of the ball-handling duties. With these new additions, the Lakers are looking to get three complementary players on the court at once, without needing a third primary creator. And honestly, this defensive upgrade sounds crucial. The source itself spells it out: LeBron James, at this point in his career, just cannot defend like he once used to. That’s a huge factor for this team, and probably a big part of why Redick is so focused on those defensive wings.
With all these new faces and the emphasis on fitting together, it’s clear the Lakers are trying to find that championship rhythm. Redick’s already saying it’s a season-long journey, and given the candid talk about their defensive needs, it looks like they’re ready to put in the work. How these new pieces mesh and whether they can truly shore up that defense will be the story to watch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply