The NBA insiders find a loose end in the Lakers coach-player relationship. Maybe LeBron James and JJ Redick are not on the same page. Even though media reports say that the superstar didn’t play a role in Redick’s coaching job, he indeed ran the hard yards to establish a relationship through the podcast. However, the 40-year-old coach’s plan for the LA Lakers, which he mentioned in the introductory press conference, may not be something that King James wishes for, as per Sam Amick, The Athletic reporter.

Amick, featuring alongside Jovan Buha, a Lakers insider, in the show, Buha’s Block, submerged themselves into the Lakers’ latest press conference. While the entire Lakers nation saw a ray of hope after the event, Amick spotted a minor problem that could turn fatal for the Purple & Gold. The Athletic reporter highlighted that JJ Redick focused on player development rather than winning the championship from the get-go, based on his statements.

Building on it, Amick said, “Not only LeBron, but Anthony Davis… They seem to see it differently… They just want to know that the franchise is truly pushing as hard as possible to get something done (trade-in a third superstar).” Nevertheless, Amick concluded that the Lakers would “lean into player development” and Jovan Buha, jumping the gun, said, “Four words LeBron James never wants to hear.” 

If not for Anthony Davis, it’s quite reasonable for LeBron James to focus on winning the championship. The 20x All-Star, who is in the last stretches of his career, has the right to end his career with the ambition of getting that fifth ring. If Redick looks to make use of a 4-year contract with the Lakers to strengthen the roster, King James may even leave the franchise. Hinting at the potential exit, Sam Amick added that James was aware of “opportunities with other teams to get better.”

What did JJ Redick speak about Lakers player development?

First of all, JJ Redick had all eyes and ears set on him after the announcement. Every word uttered from his mouth was carefully decoded. Rightly so, the man took the responsibility of the Lakers for the next four years. While some claimed that the 40-year-old won’t last for more than two and half years on the fold, Redick spoke with sheer clarity and authority.

One of the reporters asked him about the expectations set around the side, heading into the new season. Redick said, “Now, the expectations here are certainly different. And as we sort of build out the culture… You have to let go of outcomes. You just do. It has to be about the enjoyment and embracing the process.” It clearly stated that the new coach is more interested in laying the foundation rather than putting together a team to win a ring.

Moreover, speaking of player development, he said, “My motivation for doing this job starts with a simple foundation of service… The greatest moments late in my career were about helping players.” There’s no doubt that Sam Amick has decoded the words rightly. But, the question really is: Is LeBron James selfless to worry about building the roster rather than winning the ring? Let us know your opinion in the comments below.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.