In a shocking revelation, former Los Angeles Lakers coach Frank Vogel has come forward to blame JJ Redick for the team’s struggles during his tenure. Vogel, who coached the Lakers from 2020 to 2022, made the surprising comments in a recent interview, sparking a heated debate among Lakers fans.
“JJ Redick was a great shooter, but his defensive limitations were a major concern for us,” Vogel said. “We tried to hide him on defense, but it was a challenge. He struggled to keep up with quicker guards, and his lack of size and athleticism made it difficult for him to contest shots.”
Vogel’s comments have raised eyebrows among Lakers fans, who remember Redick’s tenure with the team fondly. Redick played for the Lakers from 2019 to 2021, averaging 14.3 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. While he was known for his shooting ability, his defensive shortcomings were often exposed by opposing teams.
“I’m not saying JJ was the sole reason for our struggles, but his defensive limitations were a factor,” Vogel clarified. “We had to make adjustments to compensate for his weaknesses, and it affected our overall team defense.”
The Lakers’ struggles during Vogel’s tenure were well-documented, and the team ultimately parted ways with him in 2022. While Vogel’s comments about Redick may come as a surprise, they highlight the challenges the team faced during that period.
As the Lakers continue to rebuild and search for a championship formula, Vogel’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of defensive versatility and athleticism. While Redick’s shooting ability was a valuable asset, his defensive limitations ultimately proved to be a liability for the team.