It goes without saying that JJ Redick has quickly become one of the most popular analysts on ESPN's First Take. Redick, who retired last season from the NBA, has transitioned into becoming an NBA analyst and has done a fantastic job so far.
His insightful analysis, plus his ability to explain his points well have made him one of First Take's most valuable experts. And during yesterday's episode, Redick went toe-to-toe with Stephen A. Smith, and it was a sight to behold.
During a discussion about the Miami Heat ahead of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Stephen A. Smith called Jimmy Butler a perimeter shooter. Redick, who has played with Butler in the past, noted that he has never heard Butler be described as that.
The two then debated about Butler's numbers and even compared them to Giannis Antetokounmpo's. Smith felt that Butler was a good perimeter shooter, something Redick fiercely shut him down over (till 2:18).
JJ Redick: “You said Jimmy Butler was a perimeter shooter. I love Jimmy Butler, he’s one of my favorite players in the league, one of my favorite teammates. But I think that’s the first time I’ve heard someone describe Jimmy Butler as a perimeter shooter… I have to look up Jimmy’s numbers from the midrange but Giannis shot over 42% from the mid-range which is well above league average…”
Stephen A. Smith: “Jimmy Butler missed some time this season…”
JJ Redick: “What does that have to do with his shooting percentages? Jimmy Butler basically decided to not shoot threes…”
Stephen A. Smith: “JJ frowns at this stuff like he’s scaring somebody. I ain’t scared of nobody. I appreciate the suit though.”
JJ Redick: “I’m not trying to scare you, Stephen A., I’m trying to debate you and I’m trying to point out how erroneous you are sometimes… I’m not talking about mid range pull-ups, mid range turnarounds in the post, not talking about three-point dare shots. I’m trying to think of a time in the playoffs when I didnt see a contested mid range shot from Giannis.”
This was far from the only contentious interaction Redick has had on First Take this week. He recently also shut down Patrick Beverley for questioning Jayson Tatum's ability as a two-way player, doing so in a quick-yet-decisive fashion.
Redick ended the debate by saying he would look into the numbers and pick this up with Stephen A. Smith at a later date.
But many fans felt that Redick had the upper hand, as Stephen A. got flustered and kept bringing up the time off that Butler had throughout the season, something that would have no impact on his shooting numbers or percentages.
As the playoffs continue, NBA fans will be hoping to see more of JJ Redick on First Take, as he has been fantastic in his role as an analyst.
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