Former Sixth Man of the Year Defends Redick's Handling of Vanderbilt Spat

Eddie Johnson believes the heated confrontation between the Lakers coach and player is a normal part of the coach-player dynamic.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an intense interaction between an NBA coach and player, with sharp, overlapping planes in muted earth tones conveying the emotional tension of the moment.A tense coach-player exchange highlights the delicate balance of motivation and rapport in the NBA.Oklahoma City Today

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick and forward Jarred Vanderbilt had a heated confrontation after a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the incident went viral, former Sixth Man of the Year Eddie Johnson does not see it as a major issue, stating that coaches often get on their players and that Redick likely has a personal relationship with his players that allows him to be direct.

Why it matters

Tensions between coaches and players can sometimes boil over, especially when a player is not performing well. However, Johnson's perspective suggests that this type of interaction is common in the NBA and that Redick's approach may stem from his personal rapport with the team.

The details

Vanderbilt only played 5 minutes in the Tuesday game against the Thunder, and he left the arena almost immediately after the game. Redick downplayed the disagreement, saying it was not a significant problem. Johnson believes that coaches are supposed to get on their players to keep them motivated and their confidence up, as long as there is a balance to maintain good relationships.

  • The incident occurred after the Lakers' game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday.

The players

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who is also a former NBA player.

Jarred Vanderbilt

A forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who had limited playing time in the recent game against the Thunder.

Eddie Johnson

A former NBA player who was the Sixth Man of the Year and is now a vocal analyst.

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What they’re saying

“Coaches are normally getting on their players, that's what they're supposed to be. There has to be a balance to keep those guys whole, keep their confidence up. Not make him think 'Oh, this guy doesn't like me.' It's the balance of everything.”

— Eddie Johnson, Former Sixth Man of the Year

“I don't know the balance is with JJ, that's personal stuff with the players. I do think he has that personal relationship with the players, that's why he can say that.”

— Eddie Johnson, Former Sixth Man of the Year

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance coaches must strike between pushing players to improve and maintaining positive relationships. Redick's direct approach may stem from his personal rapport with the team, but it's a fine line to walk as a head coach.