Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick and General Manager Rob Pelinka headlined a press conference at UCLA Health Training Center as a prelude to the upcoming NBA season. The duo extensively discussed essential pointers for the team heading into the new season while exclusively touching upon some other aspects, including a player who has stood out during the offseason with his work ethic.
Which Player Has Impressed J.J. Redick the Most During the Offseason?
During the press conference, Pelinka and Redick also answered some player- and roster-centric questions. The head coach reflected upon some of the essential aspects and changes he had seen in his players during the offseason. The duo also charted out the Lakers‘ goals and aspirations heading into the new season, which begins in October 2025.
When asked about how he felt about the team’s rising star, Austin Reaves, and the changes in his physique and playing style during the offseason, Redick said, “When he’s not on the golf course. He shot 65 this summer. Make sure you ask him about that on Tuesday. No, it’s been a constant comment from our staff: He’s been the best. Every day he’s been in the gym, he has been the best player in the gym.”
Moreover, the journalist mentioned that despite remaining low-key, Reaves does an immense amount of work in the lab, which can be seen in his exponential growth in recent seasons.
JJ on Austin:
“Everyday he’s been in the gym, he’s been the best player in the gym. His body is really good right now. He’s really strong” pic.twitter.com/LnRglkwVhz
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) September 25, 2025
Redick added, “I see. Again, this goes back to last May, all summer. His body is really good right now, really strong. His burst, his athleticism–it’s evident that he has spent a lot of time working on his body this summer.”
Meanwhile, according to the reports, the Lakers are also interested in trading for Walker Kessler. However, the deal wouldn’t come that easily, as the Utah Jazz could potentially demand Reaves in return alongside two first-round picks.
READ MORE: Lakers Legend Urges Rob Pelinka To Trade Away Austin Reaves, and the Reason Is Luka Dončić
The 6’5″ SG has been with the Lakers since 2021, and has played an excellent second fiddle to stars like LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Anthony Davis (before he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks).
Reaves has showcased a lot of promise over the years, and the coaching staff backs him up to perform in crucial games. He averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists throughout the season. It will be interesting to see the Lakers’ roster moves if they do indeed choose to go all in for Kessler during the preseason.
