Even though, JJ Redick is not reportedly the frontrunner for the Lakers position, it seems the news hasn’t affected him. All is not lost for the former Duke graduate as some reports still consider him a viable candidate. Nonetheless, he continues with his analysis of a game, more recently finding a chink in the armor for the Dallas Mavericks.

On his recent NBA Finals deep dive with Richard Jefferson, Redick discussed the Mavs defeat and the adjustments that might be deemed essential. The leading duo, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving posted 30 and 12 points each alongside 10 and 3 rebounds respectively. It did not turn out to be a successful evening for the latter who also missed all five of his 3-point attempts. It was further followed up by PJ Washington – an extremely effective trade – and Derrick Jones Jr, who weren’t at their usual best either.

Jones Jr, had 1/2 attempt for the 3-pointer range while Washington had 0/3. That seems to have translated into Dallas’ poor 7/27 3-pointer attempt for just 25.9%. Redick feels this is where the Mavs have to improve not just statically but mentally as well. According to Redick, “You two guys you have to take more threes whether they go in or not… you have to be willing to take the shot.” The two have previously peaked at their 3-point percentage at 40 and 47 and naturally, JJ’s assertion seems only fitting of the potential.

Plus Redick also thinks, Doncic would take more responsibilities in game 2. There is a possibility of more, “Luca post-ups even against Jaylen.” But the more crucial aspect, one that the entire result may depend on, according to the former NBA star, would be the best of the duo – Doncic and Irving’s scoring efficiency. “Unless they do that, I don’t think anything really matters,” he states.

Doncic and Irving have indeed taken the reins of the Mavericks all through. Playing in the other’s presence, each averages 32.0 and 25.3 points respectively. “It’s a beautiful combination,” coach Jason Kidd had remarked, agreeable to Reddick, proving to be a worthy coaching candidate.

Is JJ Redick still an option for the Lakers?

Ever since Darvin Ham’s exit from the Lakers, JJ Redick has emerged as a top pick for the franchise. Days ago, the Lakers were also reportedly “zeroing in” on the Orlando Magic star. However, new reports show that might not be the case just yet.

ESPN’s report stated that University of Connecticut head coach Dan Hurley was the option for the longest time. Yet Jovan Buha from The Athletic reported that Redick is still “a viable candidate.” Amidst all this Redick also spoke about the situation with Shams Charania indirectly.

“My focus is on the NBA Finals, I will say that,” Redick said. “In terms of Shams, that will be addressed once the season is over, so I’ll just say that.” Previous reports all stated that JJ Redick would accept the Lakers position once his obligation with ESPN ends after the finals. But the swerve of Hurley has left people wondering who the real option was all along.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the Reese-Clark rivalry and more, watch this video.