Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick backs Luka Doncic for MVP award
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes Luka Doncic should be named the NBA Most Valuable Player if the team continues their stellar late-season form.
The Western Conference franchise have surged to third in the standings following a remarkable run of 24 victories in their last 34 games.
At the heart of that resurgence is their marquee guard, who has been delivering astonishing statistical performances since late February.
Redick insists the league’s leading scorer is the undisputed catalyst for the Californian team’s current success.
“He’s the engine that’s driving all of our winning.”
“Certainly, we have a ton of guys starring in their roles, but he’s the driver.”
Superstar hits peak physical condition
The dynamic playmaker has averaged an incredible 36.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.1 assists during a 14-2 stretch for the Lakers.
His head coach praised this improved conditioning, noting his fitness levels are at their highest point since his early years in the league.
Despite his individual brilliance, the 27-year-old missed Monday’s fixture against the Washington Wizards through suspension after accumulating 16 technical fouls.
The elite creator has finished in the top eight of MVP voting for five consecutive seasons but has never claimed the prestigious award.
Frustration mounts over award recognition
Last season, the standout guard finished third in the ballot behind Denver Nuggets centre Nikola Jokic.
Speaking recently about his candidacy, the prolific point-getter expressed bewilderment at his standing in the media narratives.
“The better I play, the more I go down in rankings.”
“So, I don’t know what more I can do.”
He currently leads the association with a career-best 33.7 points per night and ranks first for both 40-point and 30-point performances this campaign.
While traditionally known for his offensive wizardry, the versatile star is also contributing heavily on the defensive end, ranking sixth overall in steals.