LeBron James still valued across Lakers organization, coach JJ Redick says
lakers-redick-says-organization-values-lebron-james
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick insisted the franchise remains fully committed to LeBron James after reports suggested friction between team governor Jeanie Buss and the four-time NBA champion.
Speaking to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin on Jan. 23, 2026, Redick said “everybody in this organization appreciates LeBron and appreciates what he’s done for the Lakers,” adding that James has “carried on the legacy, and also, truthfully, the burden of being a superstar for the Los Angeles Lakers for eight years.” Redick rated the experience of coaching James as “10 out of 10,” while acknowledging the two occasionally disagree.
The coach’s remarks follow a recent story alleging Buss grew frustrated with James over his role in the 2021 Russell Westbrook trade and even explored sending the forward to the L.A. Clippers. The Lakers have rejected suggestions of internal discord.
Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports and James’ longtime agent, also pushed back on the report, telling McMenamin that only those directly involved understand the true nature of the relationship between James and the organization.
James, 41, is in his eighth season with Los Angeles. The Lakers are attempting to balance their future around newly acquired guard Luka Dončić while determining how long the NBA’s all-time scoring leader will remain in purple and gold.
Source: Lakers Nation
