J.J. Redick Is Already Requesting NBA Change After First Game As Head Coach

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Tuesday night saw J.J. Redick coach in his first game with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lakers got off to a strong start against the Minnesota Timberwolves and used a big second quarter to win by seven, 110-103. Anthony Davis led the way with 36 points and 16 rebounds while Rui Hachimura was right behind him with 18 points and five rebounds.

LeBron James had 16 points and five rebounds while his son, Bronny, didn’t score but picked up a rebound in his NBA debut.

Even though the Lakers won, Redick wasn’t happy with the game balls.

EL SEGUNDO, CA – JUNE 24: New Head Coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers poses for a portrait on June 24, 2024 at UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

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“I’m gonna send in a request to the league tomorrow (Wednesday) that we can play with worn-in basketballs,” Redick said. “I’m not sure why we’re playing real games with brand-new basketballs. Anybody that’s ever touched an NBA ball brand new, it’s a different feel and touch than a worn-in basketball.”

“Give the guys an opportunity to pick the basketball.”

Redick will be hoping that the league approves his request otherwise he may be even more upset during his next media conference.

He’s also tasked with getting the Lakers ready for their next opponent, the the Phoenix Suns. That game will get going at 10 p.m. ET on Friday.