Even when individuals go their separate ways in the NBA, it isn’t always a foregone conclusion that there’s no longer a healthy relationship in play.
Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Dallas last season, but based on his three-word message to his former coach JJ Redick following his revenge game vs. The 17-time NBA champions, there’s no bad blood between the two.
“That's my guy,” Davis said before going into detail about his relationship with the second-year head coach.
“We haven't had a chance to have a conversation yet. But we talked about it in Vegas when we played them (the Lakers), that we should. “Last year, first-time head coach. It was trying to figure each other out.”
“Trying to figure out what he likes to do. What's his game plan … while trying to figure out my game and every other player's game as well … wishing him the best for sure.”
It was likely challenging for Redick to coach against his former superstar forward on Friday. Davis was electric for the Lakers during Redick’s first season as an NBA head coach in 2024-25, making superhuman contributions on both ends of the court thanks to his length, versatility, and lateral quickness.
The 32-year-old averaged 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game in 42 games, shooting 52.8% from the field on a Lakers squad playing above-average basketball ahead of the trade deadline.
However, the Lakers made the biggest move of the trade season on Feb. 2, trading Davis to the Mavericks for 26-year-old phenomenon Luka Doncic.
As a result, it makes sense why Davis was eager to compete against Los Angeles on Friday with his new squad.
Davis finished the contest with 12 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three blocks in a 10-point loss, though, allowing the Lakers to get the last laugh.
Still, regarding Davis and Redick's relationship, the two parties appear prepared to support one another as they continue their respective NBA journeys.
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