LeBron James Gets Praised by JJ Redick While Blasting Others

It was evident Wednesday night during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 131-114 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies that JJ Redick is a very demanding coach who doesn’t handle defeat well. Redick acknowledged LeBron James‘ “fantastic” 39-point performance and his role as the “hardest” player on the court during the loss during his postgame news conference. However, he left the podium when asked how he would respond to what he saw as the team’s lack of effort. According to Redick, “I just did,” when asked. & Stars Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura were not playing for the Lakers. Hachimura was unable to participate because of an illness, and Davis is coping with a bruise on his left heel. The dynamic of this team is drastically altered by Davis’ absence in particular. With an NBA-high 32.6 points, 11.6 rebounds, and outstanding defense per game, he is playing what may be the finest basketball of his career. Without Davis, it was particularly clear how weak the Lakers’ defense is. The Grizzlies made 17 of their 34 three-point attempts and shot 51.6 percent from the field. Jaren Jackson Jr., Jaylen Wells, and Ja Morant all scored 20 points. JJ Redick backs LeBron James and calls...