Revealed: What Lakers coach did to inspire comeback win over the Suns
The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off an impressive comeback, overcoming a 22-point deficit to beat the Phoenix Suns 123-116 in their second game of the 2024-25 NBA season. Anthony Davis, the team’s top scorer, explained how head coach JJ Redick’s calm approach helped guide them to the win.
The Suns were in control early, leading 48-26 midway through the game and ending the first half 61-52. Davis shared that Redick’s steady words at halftime made a big difference.
“At halftime, J told us, ‘We’re alright. Settle down. We know what we’re doing wrong—turnovers, transition. We’re getting good looks, just chip away; we won’t get it all back at once,’” Davis said. “His calmness helped us stay calm, and that’s how we managed to catch up and take the lead.”
The Lakers had a tough start, with LeBron James scoring just 4 points on poor shooting in the first half. But LeBron bounced back in the second half, adding 17 points to help secure the Lakers’ second straight win.
This is Redick’s first season as an NBA head coach, but his leadership is already gaining the trust of his players. Young talents like Bronny James and Quincy Olivari have praised Redick for keeping the team motivated. Davis also spoke highly of Redick, saying, “We trust him—what he’s doing, what he plans to do on both ends of the floor—and it’s paying off.”
Redick has been focused on making Davis a key part of the team’s offense. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, Redick and the coaching staff are committed to getting Davis as many touches as possible.
Before the season began, Austin Reaves stressed the need for a good start, and Redick’s Lakers are off to a 2-0 start—something that has fans excited. The last time the Lakers began 2-0 was in 2010, a season that ended with a championship. History also shows that every time LeBron James starts a season 2-0, he goes on to reach the NBA Finals.
