NBA

LeBron James responds to JJ Redick’s on-air outburst during Lakers vs. Timberwolves Game 2

After the Los Angeles Lakers' Game 2 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach JJ Redick highlighted a curious moment that quickly drew attention. LeBron James later addressed it during his postgame media availability.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 19, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
© Ronald Martinez/Getty ImagesLeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 19, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

LeBron James bounced back in a big way, helping the Los Angeles Lakers even the series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. In Game 2 of the first-round matchup, head coach JJ Redick made headlines with an emotional outburst that underscored the intensity of the playoff battle.

Unlike the high-scoring opener, Game 2 was more of a grind. James and Luka Doncic combined for 52 points to carry the Lakers, while the Timberwolves leaned on Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle to stay in the fight. However, Minnesota struggled to find rhythm offensively and couldn’t match the Lakers’ energy down the stretch.

After the game, the focus shifted to Redick’s fiery moment on the sidelines. LeBron was asked about the incident and didn’t shy away from offering his take to the media after the vital win against Minnesota in the playoffs.

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“We know JJ is going to spazz out from time to time. That’s JJ,” James told reporters. “Obviously, we need to listen to the message and not how he’s delivering it.” With the series now tied, the Lakers head into Game 3 with momentum, and a clear sense of urgency.

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JJ Redick, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

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LeBron says Redick reminded him of his high school coach

Lakers star offered an insightful comparison following the latest game, saying that JJ Redick’s intense in-game demeanor reminded him of his high school coach. Despite Redick’s fiery outburst during a timeout, James took the moment in stride, acknowledging the passion behind the delivery.

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“For me, my high school coach in my freshman year was the same way,” James said. While Redick’s comments sparked plenty of reaction among Lakers fans, the four-time NBA champion wasn’t bothered and remains focused on what the team needs to do moving forward.

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What did JJ Redick say during the timeout?

During a tense timeout, Redick didn’t hold back. Frustrated with the Lakers’ performance at that point in the game, he lashed out in a moment of raw emotion. His message, though filled with expletives, was intended to fire up his team.

“Timeout. What the f*** is going on? Timeout. Jesus f***ing Christ, what the f*** are you guys doing? Come on!” Redick shouted from the sideline. It was this heated moment that LeBron referred to in his postgame comments.

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With the series now tied 1-1 against the Timberwolves, the Lakers are gearing up for a pivotal Game 3. James and the team are aiming to channel that same intensity as they look to take control of the series.

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