Despite being one of the most beloved players in the NBA, New Orleans Pelicans guard JJ Redick isn't afraid of dishing out some tough love. Speaking with reporters about the development of teammate Lonzo Ball, Redick revealed the strong words he had for the guard over his reticence to shoot open attempts.
Let's just say, it isn't language we'd use in polite company, per Andrew Lopez of ESPN:
“I literally tell [Lonzo] every f—king day to shoot the ball. I hate when he passes up good shots. … He’s turned himself into a great shooter.”
While the exact wording of his advice may be NSFW, the message it carries is undeniably positive as it relates to the development of Ball.
Long considered to be a frustrating NBA prospect because of his inability to space the floor, Ball possesses undeniable talent thanks to his court vision. Having significantly improved on the defensive end, the Pelicans retained optimism that they could rework his unorthodox shooting mechanics heading into the new year.
If the word of JJ Redick is to be believed, it sounds like they may have succeeded.
Though Lonzo Ball may never be a sharpshooter of Redick's caliber, the guard did improve his showing from behind the arc last season, earning a field goal on 38.3% of his attempts. Still paling in comparison to the numbers of the top three-point shooters around the league, the mark was good enough for Ball to be a net positive on the floor, when combined with his passing.
Should he have as much faith in himself as Redick appears too, Lonzo may finally be on the precipice of the breakout, we've all been waiting for.
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