Austin Reaves on Playing Under JJ Redick: 'Every Day Feels Like a Game, Not a Job'

Austin Reaves’ Take on JJ Redick’s Coaching Style

As a data-driven analyst who spends more time crunching numbers than watching locker room dynamics, even I couldn’t ignore Austin Reaves’ recent comments about playing under JJ Redick. The Lakers guard’s interview with Lakers Nation was less about stats and more about something we don’t often quantify: pure, unfiltered enjoyment of the game.

The Unusual Energy of a Rookie Coach

Reaves didn’t hold back: “It’s been a long time since I’ve had this much fun playing basketball.” Coming from a player known for his dry wit (and occasional sarcasm), that’s high praise. What stands out isn’t just Redick’s tactical mind—though as someone who built a post-playing career on analytics, that’s certainly part of it—but his infectious intensity.

Key takeaways from Reaves’ interview:

• No Dreaded ‘Work’ Mentality: Reaves joked (but meant it) that showing up no longer feels like punching a clock. For pro athletes grinding through 82-game seasons, that’s rare.
• Coach-as-Player Energy: Redick’s sideline passion rivals his former three-point shooting fervor. Obsessive film study? Expected. Publicly admitting mistakes? That’s refreshing.

Why This Matters Beyond the Lakers

Most coaching analyses focus on X’s and O’s. But Reaves highlights an undervalued factor: how leaders set emotional tones. In an era where player empowerment dominates, Redick—despite being a first-time HC—seems to have cracked the code on balancing accountability with joy.

Final thought: If even the sardonic Reaves is buying in, maybe analytics need a new metric—‘Fun Factor Per 48 Minutes.’ Just saying.