Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick didn't hesitate when asked about the criticism LeBron James continues to receive, even as the 41-year-old continues to perform at an elite level.
“I don't take LeBron's stuff for granted,” Redick said. “It's actually unfortunate – not to get off topic here – but it's actually unfortunate how much this guy is invested and how much he cares and the way some people talk about him. It's crazy. Being around him every day and seeing how much this guy cares. It's extraordinary.”
Redick further explained why he finds the public narrative surrounding James so frustrating, saying criticism often stems more from concern than fact.
“That's the nature of jealousy,” Reddick said. “That's the nature of jealousy. You don't get clicks, you don't get responses, by saying something nice about someone, by acknowledging someone's greatness, by acknowledging how much they care, how much work they've done, how much they've accomplished and continue to accomplish and continue to pursue something. I mean, you have to say bad things about him. You have to go on TV and knock him. You have to read, 'Oh, he did this before the game.' It's all crazy.” Be by his side every day. He's incredible. “
Reporters later asked LeBron about Redick's comments, and he responded: “I really just hope that once this is all said and done, I can make an impact on the people who have followed my career for over twenty-three years since I started this journey in high school,” James said. “My team is always there for me…nothing else matters.”
James confirmed the coach's statement with his performance, finishing with 31 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds, while becoming the team's leader in a 30-point double-double, surpassing Kobe Bryant's 61 points. The performance came less than 24 hours after he played significant minutes in a loss to the Sacramento Kings.
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