“He’s a basketball genius!” Austin Reaves breaks silence on JJ Redick getting Lakers head coaching job

After going through ups and downs while searching for a head coach, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally signed JJ Redick to a four-year contract. The news took the NBA world by storm as many analysts and players began giving their opinions on the news. However, none of the men in purple and gold have broached the subject in a long time.

The rising star of the team, Austin Reaves finally revealed his thoughts on the new coach. While speaking with THV11 reporter Cierra Clark, Reaves had high praise for JJ Redick. As Reaves has been a guest on Redick’s podcast, the 26-year-old is aware of the star’s basketball intelligence. Therefore, Reaves showed his eagerness to work with Redick.

He's a basketball genius, I think as everybody knows. I think he's gonna make a good coach and I can't wait to get to work with him. 

Austin Reaves on THV11

The star also revealed that Redick personally texted her to set up a call between the two. Reaves looks forward to “putting the brains together” and working with Redick at the Lakers. The goalkeeper wants to have a “good year” with Redick as the star will take over in the upcoming season.

Reaves should flourish even more under Redick’s guidance, as his agent has shown excitement about joining Redick. Just a few days ago, Reaves’ agent Aaron Reilly claimed fans would see a “different side” of the goalie’s game with Redick as coach. The duo’s expectations certainly rose after the statement.

JJ Redick praised ‘tough’ Austin Reaves for his play

Reilly’s assertion was based on Redick’s thoughts on Reaves. The coach has admiration for the goalkeeper who will help him develop in the future. Long before Redick joined the conversation with the Lakers head coach, the 39-year-old had shown his appreciation for the team’s young star.

Last year, during an episode of Redick’s podcast, The Old Man and the Three, the host praised Reaves. Redick described Reaves as a competitor who fights every game with his big shots and buzzers. The former player praised Reaves’ mental and physical strength.

The guy is stupid. He competes every night. Winning and losing matter to him… He has a level of mental and physical strength that I like.

JJ Redick on The Old Man and the Three