How JJ Redick Transformed Anthony Davis into the NBA’s Leading Scorer

Since taking over as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, JJ Redick has reshaped the team’s offensive strategies, placing Anthony Davis at the center of their attack. This shift not only reduces the offensive burden on LeBron James, who is approaching his 40s, but also unleashes the full potential of Davis, making him one of the top scorers in the NBA. As the 2024-25 season unfolds, Davis is enjoying the best season of his career, even putting himself in the conversation for the MVP award if his form continues.

Anthony Davis’ Explosive Stats This Season

As of November 26, 2024, Davis is averaging 30.1 points per game, a remarkable figure that surpasses legendary Lakers centers such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, George Mikan, and Shaquille O’Neal. While the season is still ongoing and factors such as the evolution of the game contribute to higher scoring, these stats highlight just how dominant Davis has become under Redick’s system.

JJ Redick’s Key Adjustments to Anthony Davis’ Game

Giving Davis the Green Light to Shoot 3s

One of the most significant changes that Redick has implemented is increasing Davis’ involvement in the three-point game. In the 2019-20 championship season, Davis averaged 3.5 three-point attempts per game with a solid shooting percentage of 38.3%. However, this figure dropped in subsequent seasons, as Davis attempted fewer three-pointers, often focusing more on scoring in the paint.

Under Redick’s system, Davis is once again taking and making more three-pointers. In the current season, he is averaging 2.1 three-point attempts per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 40.6%. This return to shooting from the perimeter is not only a personal milestone for Davis but also a game-changer for the Lakers’ offense. By extending his range, Davis forces defenders to step out, creating more opportunities for his teammates. This added threat from the outside opens up the floor, allowing for easier drives to the basket and more spacing on the court.

Utilizing Davis as the Offensive Hub

Redick has also shifted the Lakers’ offensive approach by making Davis the central point in their ball movement. Traditionally, Davis has been known for his scoring and defense, but Redick recognized that he could also excel as a playmaker. This strategic move allows Davis to touch the ball more often, and it maximizes his ability to create opportunities not just for himself but for his teammates.

For example, in one sequence, Davis moves out to the top of the key, drawing his defender away from the paint. This forces the opposing center to step up, leaving LeBron James with a clear path to the basket. A simple pass from Davis to James results in an easy two points for the Lakers. This play highlights Davis’ court vision and his ability to create offensive flow, something that has often been overlooked in his skill set.

Moreover, when Davis steps out to the three-point line, he continues to show his playmaking ability by distributing the ball to shooters or cutters. The aim here is to pull the opposing center away from the basket, opening up passing lanes and driving spaces for the Lakers’ guards and wings.

The Role of Off-Ball Movement

Redick has also emphasized the importance of off-ball movement within the Lakers’ offense. Even when Davis isn’t directly involved in a play, he is effective at drawing defenders and creating openings. His ability to spot opportunities and make quick decisions with the ball has given the Lakers more offensive versatility.

Davis is now frequently used as the primary ball handler, a position that was once reserved for LeBron. This shift has allowed Davis to showcase his ability to both score from various areas on the floor and facilitate plays for others. His 31.6% ball-handling rate this season is a significant jump, indicating just how integral he has become to the Lakers’ offense.

A Unique Skill Set for a Center

Unlike traditional centers, Davis boasts a versatile skill set that makes him a matchup nightmare for opponents. He can score in the paint, shoot from mid-range, and even knock down three-pointers with consistency. His wide offensive range and ability to stretch the floor have made him one of the toughest players to defend in the league, especially in one-on-one situations.

The combination of his skill set and Redick’s tactical adjustments has allowed Davis to flourish as both a scorer and playmaker. This has helped shift the Lakers’ offensive structure, reducing the reliance on LeBron James while giving Davis more opportunities to impact the game in multiple ways.

For the first time since joining the Lakers, LeBron James no longer leads the team in usage rate. Instead, that title belongs to Anthony Davis, whose diverse scoring and playmaking abilities have reshaped the Lakers’ offensive identity. With Redick’s leadership, Davis has unlocked his full potential, turning him into a top scorer and a centerpiece for the team’s future.

As long as Davis can maintain this level of play, the Lakers have a legitimate MVP candidate and a dynamic offensive weapon. With the right system in place, Anthony Davis is finally living up to his immense potential.