JJ Redick is angry after LeBron James violates the shot clock

There's a new sheriff in Los Angeles, and he's not afraid to let the biggest gun in town know.

After LeBron James failed to block a shot and the Lakers suffered a shot clock violation during their game in Phoenix on Monday, the broadcast showed an impassioned JJ Redick shouting from the sideline to his superstar, “Shoot the damn ball!” ”

The 40-year-old rookie head coach – No. 29 in franchise history – was hired in June 2024 to lead the Lakers and the 39-year-old James in the final chapter of his career.

And although coaches who previously stood on the King's sidelines often seemed afraid to actually coach the 20-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, Redick harbors no such insecurities, at least so far in the young season.

In the first three games with Redick at the helm, the Lake Show earned three straight home wins against Minnesota, Phoenix and Sacramento.

Redick's profane explosion, which marked the Lakers' first loss of the season and their first road loss, occurred with about eight minutes left in the second quarter.

It is not clear from the game broadcast whether James was unaware of the dwindling shot clock or whether he actively chose not to field the basketball because he did not look clean and did not want to affect his shooting percentage.

James didn't appear to be handcuffed at any other point in the game, although he hit just 3 of 14 from the floor and 2 of 5 from distance; James finished the game with 11 points – the fewest among the Lakers' starters.

Although Los Angeles was leading 36-34 at the time of the turnover, Phoenix won 109-105.

Both the Lakers and Suns are now 3-1.

Before taking the head coaching position in Los Angeles, Redick had his own 15-year playing career that included stints with the Magic, Clippers, 76ers, Pelicans, Bucs and Mavericks.

And the word in the car wash is that he is just as committed to his role today as he was when he was a player.

The Lakers will look to get back in the win column when they take on the Cavaliers on Wednesday.