Luka Doncic JJ Redick Spat Was Nothing

A sideline exchange between Lakers coach JJ Redick and superstar Luka Dončić during L.A.’s 129-101 win drew attention, but ESPN’s Dave McMenamin says the two have a "strong, close relationship" and the moment was "much ado about nothing." McMenamin added their bond dates back nearly a decade and both are "fiercely competitive," while a team source noted, "find me a star in the NBA that isn't frustrated amidst a three-game losing streak." The spat arrived as the Lakers sit 36-24 and fight to avoid the play-in with the Suns two games back. Merlin sees a familiar pattern: pressure creates sparks, not fires. Dončić’s elite numbers and the playful jacket-gifting suggest trust underlies the tension. If the duo channels competitiveness into better play, L.A. climbs; if not, margins shrink fast.