Patrick Beverley sees Lakers as a top-four team this season, citing JJ Redick’s leadership and LeBron’s motivation with Bronny on the bench.
Patrick Beverley recently made a bold prediction that the Los Angeles Lakers, under new head coach JJ Redick, could finish as a top-four seed in the competitive Western Conference. With the team currently off to a strong 3-1 start, Beverley shared his thoughts on his podcast, giving a nod to the impressive leadership from LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Redick.
“Shout out to the Lakers. So if the Lakers would’ve started off 0-3, everybody would have been yelling fire JJ Redick. Everyone. Top 4 seed in the West.”
“The motivation is on Bron to put in front of his son. Don’t send him to the G League. Yeah, Bron need to see his shorty out there on every bench. I see my son out there after I hit a mother*****er with a fade, Ima hit another mother*****er with another fade.”
“Cause my son right there. And his demeanor, his swag, his attitude, man he always had it. But having his son on the bench, it’s different.”
The former Laker believes the team’s revamped strategy and energy could propel them to the top of the standings. His comments reflect both his confidence in Redick’s coaching style and his recognition of the team’s depth and experience.
Beverley also touched on the unique motivation factor for LeBron James this season: playing with his son, Bronny James, who the Lakers selected in the 2024 NBA Draft. Beverley argued that the Lakers should keep Bronny on the main roster, rather than assigning him to the G-League, as he believes having Bronny on the bench provides LeBron with extra motivation. He described how this father-son dynamic could give LeBron an edge, boosting his performance and leadership on the court.
The Lakers’ solid start, including wins over quality opponents, has generated buzz around Redick’s approach in his debut as a head coach. Known for his basketball IQ and strategic mindset, Redick has already made an impression by implementing a balanced rotation and maximizing the contributions of both veterans and young players. Beverley’s remarks suggest a shared sentiment that Redick’s leadership style could yield results, pushing the Lakers into a top seed and a potentially deep playoff run.
LeBron has been playing well, averaging 20.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 7.5 assists, showing he can still lead the team effectively, especially with Anthony Davis continuing to play at an elite level. Beverley praised LeBron’s focus and drive this season, noting that his “demeanor, swag, and attitude” seem even sharper than in previous years. He credits much of this renewed energy to the presence of Bronny, adding that the young guard’s bench presence could be exactly what the team needs to stay sharp and focused.
Historically, the Lakers have aimed to remain at the top of the Western Conference, but recent seasons have been plagued by inconsistent play and injuries. Now, with a re-energized LeBron, a dominant Davis, and a motivated Redick at the helm, the Lakers appear to have the pieces in place to compete with the West’s top teams. Beverley’s comments reflect an optimistic outlook, based on the team’s new dynamics and the on-court chemistry that seems to be developing.
The season is still young, but Beverley’s top-four prediction aligns with the optimism of Lakers fans hoping to see the team regain its championship form. With Redick’s coaching, LeBron’s legacy-driven motivation, and the unique father-son dynamic with Bronny, the Lakers are positioning themselves as a force in the West.