JJ Redick made a big impression with his statement about LeBron James

JJ Redick watched his team win again after defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 110-102. This victory improves their record to 33-21, placing the Los Angeles Lakers in fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

They secured this win on the second night of a back-to-back, right after returning from the All-Star break. After that, Redick made comments about LeBron James that made a strong impact among the fans of the king of the court.

LeBron a billionaire?

In the game against the Portland Trail Blazers, LeBron James, at 40 years old, recorded 40 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. This marks his 22nd season in the NBA, which was the basis of coach JJ Redick’s opinion.

Despite the recent criticism surrounding James’ absence from the All-Star Game, Redick showed strong admiration for him.

“He’s a billionaire, and he’s playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years, with all the damn records and accolades. And kids will say I’m glazing him. He’s one of the greatest competitors. It’s amazing to coach him. He brings it every day. He sets the standard for how you’re supposed to approach this craft,” he stated.

“He’s a billionaire playing on the 2nd night of a back-to-back at 40.”

Lakers HC JJ Redick is in awe of The King’s commitment to the game 👑 pic.twitter.com/IrHBx9NLau

— NBA (@NBA) February 21, 2025

With this statement, the Lakers coach praised LeBron’s commitment to the franchise, despite his age. His words sparked numerous reactions from NBA fans on social media, some of them critical of the coach:

“People are missing that he’s subtly shading Luka. The Lakers know they have a lemon.”

“First player in NBA history with multiple 40-point games after turning 40 – LeBron James. 👑 ‘He’s a billionaire and playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40… one of the greatest competitors.’ The Lakers’ HC was beyond impressed tonight. 😁”

“The bar is so low that LeBron James is being celebrated just for doing his job.”

LeBron James is about to retire from professional basketball and has clear intentions of leaving his son on the Lakers’ team. However, the young player is not ready for it yet.