Stephen A. Smith Praises Lakers Coach JJ Redick's Turnaround

ESPN analyst says Redick has proven himself as a 'hell of a coach' in his second season leading the Lakers

Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:20am

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ESPN's Stephen A. Smith has changed his tune on Lakers head coach JJ Redick, praising him for transforming the team into a Western Conference contender in his second season. Smith, who was critical of the Lakers' decision to fire former coach Darvin Ham, now believes Redick has 'proven to be one hell of a coach' by leading the Lakers to a 45-25 record and an eight-game winning streak that includes victories over rivals like the Nuggets and Timberwolves.

Why it matters

Redick's success has silenced the doubters who questioned his credentials as a former NBA player-turned-podcaster taking over one of the league's most storied franchises. His ability to integrate superstars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic while also developing young talent like Austin Reaves has made the Lakers a legitimate title contender in the West, challenging perennial powers like the Thunder and Spurs.

The details

In his first season, the Lakers struggled to a first-round playoff exit, but Redick has turned things around in his second year. The team is currently third in the West with a 45-25 record and an eight-game winning streak that has included victories over rivals like the Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Rockets. Redick has found a way to make the Lakers' big three of LeBron, Doncic, and others work, despite prevailing narratives that it would be difficult.

  • The Lakers hired Redick as head coach in June 2024.
  • In his first season, the Lakers went 50-32 but lost in the first round of the playoffs.
  • This season, the Lakers are 45-25 and riding an eight-game winning streak as of March 21, 2026.

The players

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who has transformed the team into a Western Conference contender in his second season after being hired in 2024.

Stephen A. Smith

An ESPN analyst who was initially critical of the Lakers' decision to fire former head coach Darvin Ham, but has now praised Redick for proving himself as 'one hell of a coach'.

Darvin Ham

The former head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who was fired after two seasons despite leading the team to the Western Conference finals in his first year.

LeBron James

The superstar player for the Los Angeles Lakers, who has thrived under Redick's coaching.

Luka Doncic

The superstar player for the Los Angeles Lakers, who has also found success under Redick's leadership.

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What they’re saying

“I got news for you. JJ Redick is a hell of a coach. He has proven to be one hell of a coach.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst

“Him and Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks and these brothers that have been head coaches in the NBA, these brothers know what they're doing.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong play and secure a high playoff seed in the Western Conference, with the goal of reaching the NBA Finals under Redick's leadership.

The takeaway

JJ Redick's turnaround of the Lakers has silenced his critics and proven that he is a capable head coach who can lead a team of superstars to contention. His ability to integrate talent and develop young players has made the Lakers a force to be reckoned with in the West.