Stephen A. Smith isn’t one to hand out praise lightly, especially when it comes to a team as scrutinized as the Los Angeles Lakers. But recently, the outspoken First Take analyst made it clear that he sees something different developing in Los Angeles – something that could position the team as a serious contender moving forward.
Speaking about the Lakers and their trajectory, Smith pointed to what he described as a growing sense of identity under head coach JJ Redick.
“So is Joe Mazzulla, no doubt. So is Mitch Johnson San Antonio, no doubt. But JJ Redick is a coach of the year candidate,” Smith said.
“I’m just looking at the Los Angeles Lakers right now and there’s a buzz that’s fomenting. There’s a buzz that’s developing. There’s something special going on with the Purple and Gold.”
While the season has had its ups and downs, there is increasing belief that the team is finding a rhythm at the right time.
For Smith, the shift isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about cohesion, accountability, and a system that players are beginning to fully embrace.
Under Redick, the Lakers appear more structured, particularly on the offensive end, where ball movement and spacing have noticeably improved.
That evolution has led Smith to even suggest that Redick deserves consideration in the Coach of the Year conversation — a bold claim given the competition across the league.
Why JJ Redick’s influence is changing the narrative
When Redick took over, there were questions about how quickly he could transition into a head coaching role at the NBA level. However, according to Smith, his impact has been both immediate and meaningful.
One of the biggest changes has been clarity. Players seem to understand their roles more clearly, which has translated into more consistent performances.
Luka Doncic, for one, has been regularly surpassing 30 points with ease, while Austin Reaves is a clear shoe-in to replace him if he’s unavailable.
That clarity is especially important for a team built around high-profile stars, where balancing individual talent with team success can be challenging.
Smith also highlighted the way Redick communicates with his roster. His approach appears to resonate with players, fostering a culture where accountability is expected but also supported.
In a market like Los Angeles, where pressure is constant, that balance is crucial.
Another factor is adaptability. The Lakers have shown an ability to adjust game plans based on opponents, something that hasn’t always been consistent in previous seasons. That flexibility suggests a coaching staff that is both prepared and willing to evolve.
Playoffs are a must
Of course, expectations remain high. With a roster that includes established stars, anything short of a deep playoff run will likely be viewed as a disappointment.
But Smith’s comments reflect a growing belief that this version of the Lakers may be better equipped to meet those expectations.
There’s still work to be done, particularly in maintaining consistency over a full season. However, the signs are encouraging enough to shift the conversation from skepticism to cautious optimism.
With 10 wins in a row under his belt, Redick’s name will only begin to crop up more in the conversation if they stay unbeaten.
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