Breaking Down JJ Redick’s Struggles as a Sideline Out-of-Bounds Play Coach
As a former sharpshooter and basketball analyst, JJ Redick has earned respect for his high basketball IQ and ability to dissect the game from multiple angles. However, his transition into coaching has sparked debates about his effectiveness in high-pressure moments, particularly when it comes to sideline out-of-bounds (SLOB) plays in clutch situations. While his insights into the game are invaluable, Redick’s track record with late-game SLOB sets has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
The Challenges of Clutch-Time Coaching
Sideline out-of-bounds plays are a vital part of any coach’s repertoire, especially in close games where every possession counts. These plays require precision, creativity, and an understanding of both the strengths of your team and the tendencies of your opponents. For Redick, whose career as a player was marked by discipline and execution, his struggles as a coach in these scenarios seem paradoxical.
One recurring criticism is the lack of diversity in his SLOB sets. Analysts have noted that Redick’s plays often rely on basic screens and predictable actions that fail to generate open looks. Opposing defenses, aware of this pattern, can easily anticipate and disrupt these plays. For instance, in a recent game, Redick’s team needed a crucial basket to tie the score. Instead of a creative design to free up a shooter or create space for a drive, the play ended in a contested mid-range jumper—a low-percentage shot that epitomized the lack of strategic depth.
Over-Reliance on Players’ Abilities
Another issue is Redick’s apparent over-reliance on his players to improvise. While it’s true that great players can make something out of nothing, a well-designed play often serves as the foundation for such moments. Redick’s sets, however, often leave players scrambling to create under duress. This puts undue pressure on them, particularly in clutch moments when defenses tighten up.
This lack of structure contrasts sharply with some of the league’s best SLOB coaches, such as Brad Stevens or Erik Spoelstra, who have built reputations on designing creative plays that exploit mismatches and defensive lapses. The comparison highlights the gap in Redick’s play-calling ability and raises questions about his readiness for the rigors of in-game coaching adjustments.
Potential for Growth
Despite the criticisms, it’s important to acknowledge that Redick is still early in his coaching journey. Transitioning from playing to coaching is no small feat, and many great coaches struggled in their initial years. Redick’s intelligence and understanding of the game suggest that he has the potential to grow in this area, provided he seeks out mentorship and learns from more experienced coaches.
Moreover, his ability to connect with players, stemming from his recent playing career, remains an asset. If Redick can pair this with improved play-calling and tactical awareness, there’s no reason he can’t turn his weaknesses into strengths.
JJ Redick’s struggles with sideline out-of-bounds plays in clutch moments are a glaring blemish on an otherwise promising coaching career. While the criticism is warranted, it’s worth remembering that every coach faces growing pains. With time, effort, and a commitment to innovation, Redick has the tools to evolve into a more well-rounded coach. Until then, fans will continue to scrutinize his play designs, hoping to see the spark of creativity that once defined his playing career.
