Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has expressed his concerns about the challenges players face in managing external pressures, particularly those arising from social media. In a recent media session, Redick highlighted the difficulty players encounter in maintaining emotional equilibrium amidst public scrutiny, regardless of their performance on the court.
Redick pointed out that many players are heavily influenced by online opinions and feedback, leading to fluctuations in their confidence levels. “These guys, they read every single good and bad thing about them,” Redick explained. “They’ll feel ‘bad’ if they play poorly and ‘good’ if they play well because of what people will say about them.” This constant engagement with social media makes it increasingly challenging for athletes to remain neutral and focused during their games.
The Lakers’ coach’s comments come on the heels of a successful three-game road trip where the team secured two victories. Following this stretch, the Lakers are set to host the San Antonio Spurs for an NBA Emirates Cup game at Crypto.com Arena.
Redick also took the opportunity to commend LeBron James, who recently demonstrated resilience after his double-digit scoring streak was interrupted. In a thrilling game against the Toronto Raptors, which ended with a buzzer-beater from Rui Hachimura, James chose to prioritize team success over personal milestones by offering an assist instead of scoring to maintain his streak. Redick noted that James returned to form with a season-high 29 points in the subsequent match against the Philadelphia 76ers, showcasing his ability to bounce back and lead his team to victory.
“I don’t think LeBron needs confidence,” Redick stated, emphasizing that it’s essential for players to remember their capabilities, especially following injuries and early-season challenges. The Lakers continue to rely on the leadership and skills of stars like James as they navigate the rigors of the season. With the team maintaining its competitive edge, fans can remain hopeful for more success as the NBA season progresses.