Lakers’ JJ Redick doubles down on his ‘MVP’ rule ahead of NBA season

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JJ Redick is entering his third season with the Lakers’ JJ Redick doubles down onLos Angeles Lakers with a retooled roster led by Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. It is safe to assume that he has a lot of things on his mind, and Redick would be the first to admit that he can be totally consumed by basketball.

He will lean heavily on Doncic and Reaves, while trying to seamlessly incorporate Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Kevon Looney, and Collin Sexton into his system.

During their practice on Thursday, Redick was told about the annual survey showing Doncic was not among the top choices for MVP in the upcoming season. The 42-year-old coach, however, was not interested in it. At least for now.

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“I keep the same rule that I kept when I worked for media. I don’t want to talk about MVP until at least 50 games into the season,” said Redick in the video posted by The Athletic’s Law Murray.

JJ Redick on awards: “I keep the same rule that I kept when I worked for media. I don’t want to talk about MVP until at least 50 games into the season.” pic.twitter.com/NNkxCHXlLp

— Law Murray 💀 (@LawMurrayTheNU) October 15, 2026

The yearly poll revealed Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs as the top pick, followed by Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets and Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Curiously, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the two-time reigning MVP, was also excluded, reflecting the possibility of voters’ fatigue.

But as Redick stressed, he is not concerned with individual awards at this stage. He is fully focused on steering the Lakers to a strong start and navigating the big changes.

Last season, Doncic had a strong chance to win his first MVP until he got derailed by a hamstring injury.

The Lakers will close out their preseason on Friday against the Denver Nuggets.

Related: Ziaire Williams addresses injury concerns ahead of Lakers’ preseason finale vs. Nuggets

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