A new era has arrived for the Los Angeles Lakers, and head coach JJ Redick isn’t holding back, even when it comes to coaching LeBron James. During Monday night’s game against the Suns, LeBron hesitated on a late shot-clock possession, resulting in a violation. Redick, visibly frustrated, shouted from the sideline, urging the star to take the shot.

“Shoot the f**king ball!” Redick was seen yelling.

Hired in June 2024, Redick is tasked with leading the team and working with LeBron, who at 39 may be nearing the end of his career.

Unlike some of LeBron James‘ previous coaches, Redick has shown he’s unafraid to be direct with the NBA legend, setting a no-nonsense tone early in the season.

The Lakers started the season strong, notching three consecutive wins at home over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings.

But the intensity of Redick‘s sideline reaction during the Phoenix matchup-LA’s first loss-demonstrated the competitive energy he brings.

LeBron struggled in Lakers loss

Redick’s outburst occurred in the second quarter, with eight minutes left, following LeBron‘s indecision on the shot clock. Whether LeBron missed the time or hesitated over a clean look remains unclear, but the moment quickly became a talking point.

LeBron finished the game with 11 points, his lowest scoring output among Lakers starters, shooting just 3-for-14 overall. The Lakers led 36-34 when the turnover occurred, but Phoenix ultimately took control and won the game 109-105, bringing both teams to 3-1 on the season.

“The way we lost is something you just can’t do in this league,” LeBron said.

“Each week and each game will define what kind of team we want to be. We can’t let this loss snowball into something bigger. We’re still getting to know our system and each other on the floor, and we need to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”