Stephen A. Smith on JJ Redick: Can Win Coach of the Year, Take Lakers to NBA Finals

The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold decision to hire JJ Redick as a first-time head coach, but that gamble has paid off so far. The Lakers have clawed their way to a top-four seed in the West, powered by a blazing 14-4 run, which prompted some high praise from Stephen A. Smith.

Smith detailed ways the Lakers can beat the opposition with their new-look roster and pointed out that opponents need to scorch the nets from deep just to keep pace with LA’s hot offense. Los Angeles may have failed to add a starting-caliber center at the trade deadline, but Redick has his team moving like a contender right now, and Stephen A. knows it.

“JJ Redick, let me say this to America, the brother’s a candidate for Coach of the Year,” the longtime sports analyst said on First Take. “He’s doing an outstanding job.”  Smith further noted that the Lakers’ offense has been really efficient of late despite not having Anthony Davis for the majority of their recent run.

Stephen A. is confident the Lakers have the talent and cohesiveness to win the Western Conference. The 56-year-old called out obstacles that could slow down other contenders, like Oklahoma City’s youth, Dallas’ injury woes, and the underwhelming recent showings from the Denver Nuggets aspects that could boost Los Angeles to a conference win.

Smith also discussed the struggles and uncertainty of the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns, who have both disappointed this year despite their respective star power. With so many unanswered questions surrounding other playoff-hopeful teams in the West, there’s good reason to believe the Lakers could fight their way to the top.

Luka Doncic has finally been unleashed with the Lakers

Regardless of how talented a player is, incorporating themselves into a new team’s system is be a process. That proved to be the case with Luka Doncic, who posted three-straight games of 16 or fewer points before exploding against the Nuggets on Saturday.

The Slovenian sensation seemingly returned to form with a 32-point, 10-rebound, 7-assist showing in the dominant victory. With Doncic back to his old self, the Lakers were able to show the rest of the NBA what they’re capable of at their best.

As Doncic continues to get acclimated to his new home, the Lakers should only improve from here. As one of the best playmakers in the game, Doncic should have no issue getting his new teammates involved. If the five-time All-Star gels with James as expected, Los Angeles could be the team to beat come April.