Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick recently compared veteran player LeBron James to Hall of Fame pitcher Greg Maddux, highlighting the similarities in their longevity and effectiveness late in their careers. James, who is currently 41 years old and playing in his 23rd NBA season, continues to perform at a high level, a feat not previously seen in the league.
Redick addressed whether he has had to change his expectations for James at this stage, telling Spectrum SportsNet:
“No. Not recalculating because I know LeBron, I know how much he puts into this. I think it’s just recognizing, game-to-game, what he has. He’s Greg Maddux at the end of his career. Every night he doesn’t have his best stuff, but he has enough to win and I’m his catcher, I’m figuring out how to call the pitches. Sometimes he tells me to F-off and calls his own pitch which is fine too. To me it’s that, it’s like what’s the best way to kinda utilize him tonight based on the opponent, based on the coverage, based on how he’s moving. We have conversations sometimes in-game ‘how’s your 3-ball feel? Alright, I’m gonna run this softball play for you or I’m gonna put you in this spot versus the pick-and-roll because I know that you’ll end up with the shot.’ It’s really just that ongoing dialogue with him. To me what he’s doing at 41, what he did last year at 40, it’s greatness, it’s just a different form of greatness.”
Redick emphasized that ongoing communication with James is important for determining how best to use him during games. The coach noted that while James may not always be able to perform at peak levels every night as he once did earlier in his career—similar to Maddux’s later years—he still provides enough impact to help the team succeed.
James’ versatility allows him to contribute positively regardless of coaching strategy or opponent.
Additionally, Luka Doncic expressed optimism about building further chemistry with James this season for the Lakers. Doncic said he believes their partnership will continue to improve as they play together.