JJ Redick, the newly appointed coach for the LA Lakers, sparked curiosity with a cryptic comment regarding Anthony Davis and his evolving role on the court. During an appearance on Zach Lowe’s *The Lowe Post* podcast, Redick hinted at a theory about Davis’ current playing style, specifically whether the big man still exhibits the same shooting prowess that he showcased during the NBA bubble season. However, the former NBA sharpshooter refrained from revealing too much.
When asked if Davis, who dominated as both a perimeter shooter and inside presence during the Lakers’ 2019-2020 championship run in the NBA bubble, “lives in the paint” now, Redick coyly replied, “I have a theory on that. One that I’m not willing to share right now. But I will if I’m right.” The Lakers coach left listeners wondering what changes he sees in Davis’ approach to the game and how they might unfold as the new season progresses.
Zach Lowe asked JJ Redick about Anthony Davis’ Bubble Shooting, what happened there, and whether AD just lives in the paint now.
Redick responded with:
“I have a theory on that. One that I’m not willing to share right now. But I will if I’m right.” 👀
pic.twitter.com/gFujIKauVe— Lakers Legacy (@LakersLegacyPod) September 25, 2024
Back in the NBA bubble, Anthony Davis demonstrated a dynamic range that included 33% shooting from beyond the arc, a critical factor in the Lakers’ championship run. Davis was not just a threat inside the paint but also a legitimate perimeter shooter, averaging a solid 26.1 points per game. His versatility was seen as one of the primary reasons behind the Lakers’ success. Yet, in the seasons that followed, his shooting efficiency from three-point range dropped significantly to 26% in the 2020-2021 season. Last season, Davis focused more on traditional big-man duties, showing a noticeable shift in his game.
His production, while still solid, fell below the heights of his bubble performance. Davis ended last season with averages of 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game—impressive numbers, though less perimeter-oriented than his bubble showing. Injuries, particularly a persistent hip issue, have limited Davis’ ability to maintain consistent form. As a result, many analysts speculate whether Davis’ evolving role has led him to live more in the paint, playing a classic center role, or whether injuries have forced this adaptation.
During the podcast, Redick shared his vision for empowering Davis as much as possible in the upcoming season. Redick revealed that he recently had a dinner meeting with Davis in Santa Monica, where they discussed how to maximize his potential. “We’re going to empower him as much as he wants to be empowered,” Redick emphasized. “If he wants to be First Team All-NBA and wants to be in the MVP conversation all year long, we’re going to empower him to do that.” The statement highlights Redick’s commitment to providing Davis with the support and guidance he needs to reclaim his form and elevate his game.
For Redick, who was a renowned sharpshooter during his playing days, Davis’ evolving role into a more versatile offensive threat could be crucial for the Lakers’ aspirations. If Davis manages to rediscover his outside shooting touch while maintaining his dominance inside the paint, it could spell trouble for opponents across the league. Redick’s comments signal that the Lakers are banking on Davis to be the cornerstone of their team’s success moving forward, with his evolving role playing a key part in their strategy.
The LA Lakers, under the leadership of head coach Darvin Ham and with Redick now part of the coaching staff, are heading into the 2024 NBA season with high expectations. Although Davis has faced criticism for his perceived inability to stay healthy or consistently dominant since the 2020 championship, both fans and coaches believe that he still has the potential to be one of the league’s most unstoppable forces.
If Redick’s strategy to empower Davis proves effective, the Lakers could see a return to form for their star big man. Whether or not Davis continues to “live in the paint” or reverts to his bubble-era shooting form remains to be seen. What is clear, though, is that both Redick and the Lakers organization see Davis as the key to unlocking their championship potential.
As the Lakers gear up for the new season, eyes will be on Anthony Davis to see if he can once again combine his inside dominance with his outside shooting to lead the team back to title contention. Redick’s “theory” may remain a mystery for now, but with Davis’ talent and Redick’s guidance, there’s a chance that Lakers fans could witness something special in the coming months.
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