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JJ Redick says LA Lakers signing was ‘incredible opportunity’, young star is showing great commitment already

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Sep 26, 2025 9:00 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have picked up multiple talented players from the open market this summer.

While the duo of Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart signing with the Los Angeles Lakers has made the most headlines, the organization also picked up a talented young player.

It’s none other than Jake LaRavia. After spending the first three seasons of his career with the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings, LaRavia will now don the iconic Purple and Gold jersey.

Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images

Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick on Jake LaRavia’s signing

Ahead of the Lakers’ 2025 Media Day, general manager Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick held a press conference.

During the conference, both Pelinka and Redick shared their honest views on the arrival of LaRavia.

“Jake LaRavia is really good now and has a lot of growth left in him,” Pelinka said.

On the other hand, coach Redick was simply surprised that the 23-year-old was allowed to become a free agent.

“On Jake, who didn’t have his option picked up as a rookie for his fourth year, so probably unexpected that he ends up being a free agent at this time,” Redick stated.

LaRavia has averaged 6.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in his career, but it seems like the Lakers’ top brass sees massive potential in the young forward.

JJ Redick coaching Jake LaRavia is an ‘incredible opportunity’

Coaching the Lakers is not an easy job by any means. The Laker Nation is unforgiving, and UConn’s Dan Hurley experienced that firsthand.

However, Redick has seemingly cracked the code, as he has done an excellent job of supporting the decision of LaRavia’s addition to the roster.

“To get a young player in free agency for a team that is trying to win a championship, it is an incredible opportunity for myself and our player development department to have him continue to grow,” he added.

“I’m very high on him, his level of commitment to what we’ve asked of the guys this offseason has been very high,” Redick concluded.

LaRavia may have impressed Redick, but it’s safe to say that the young forward will come off the bench during his debut season with the team.

After all, the Lakers already have several stars in the pecking order to clinch a spot in the starting lineup.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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