The Los Angeles Lakers were victorious in their season-opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Crypto.com Arena, landing rookie head coach JJ Redick his first win in his new role.
Lakers’ superstar Anthony Davis poured in 36 points while pulling down 16 rebounds in the 110-103 victory. Even after the win, Redick realized that the Lakers’ horrid 16.7% three-point shooting was not something to be excited about.
An all-time great three-point shooter who connected on 1,950 three-pointers throughout his 15-year playing career, Redick knows all too well how important efficiency is from beyond the three-point line, especially in the modern NBA.
While the box score figures from beyond the arc were disappointing for the Lakers, Redick believed there was a reason for the team’s shooting struggles. He concluded that the ball itself had a great impact on their final percentage.
“I’m going to send in a request for the league tomorrow that we can play with worn-in basketballs…I’m being dead serious,” Redick told the media Tuesday night, as transcribed by Spectrum SportsNet. “I’m not sure why we’re playing real games with brand-new basketballs. Anybody who’s ever touched an NBA ball, brand new, it’s a different feel and touch than a worn-in basketball.”
Redick also acknowledged that his team got clean looks from the three-point line, especially in the second half, though he believes the feel of the ball had a major impact on their ability to knock down shots from the perimeter.
On the other side, the Minnesota Timberwolves did not have a particularly successful night from the three-point line either. Minnesota shot just 31.7% from outside on 41 attempts, possibly handing Redick some extra credibility in his claim.
While it is yet to be determined whether the league will oblige and allow games to be played using worn-in basketballs, Redick is already looking to make an impact on the game after his head coaching debut.
Redick’s Lakers will have another chance to rectify their three-point shooting efficiency against the Phoenix Suns in Crypto.com Arena on Friday, Oct. 25 at 10 p.m. ET.
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