The NBA has a new normal—three-point shooting rules the game. No more side-eyes for scoring from deep. No need to battle in the paint every time. Just ask Stephen Curry! He turned the three-ball into an art form. But for LeBron James, it’s not so simple. The Akron Hammer loves to soar, slam, and dominate inside. Yet, the game is evolving, Bron. Maybe your younger teammate, Austin Reaves, could give you a few pointers.

AR recently joined the conversation with Duncan Robinson on The Young Man & The Three podcast. He was present for the chat just a day after facing a heated moment with JJ Redick during the 76ers game. But well, knowing the bond the duo share, everything’s fine! Moreover, the podcast tried to understand the relationship and role of the Lakers HC and his 26-year-old guard. Amidst all the conversation, AR had a plea to LeBron James.

There is always a major hype around stats and facts about a player. But Austin Reaves is different, unlike his head coach. At the same time, the future primary guard of the Lakers couldn’t help but emphasize the importance of three-point shots in the league now. He mentioned: “To be honest, if you’re not making threes right now, you’re not going to win. If you’re not taking them, you’re not going to win. So you have to at this point. Like, I know Bron doesn’t like it, like, but we need him to make threes.”

Although AR hates talking stats, let’s do it anyway. Speaking of three points, Austin Reaves has a 36.1 three-point percentage. On the other hand, Bron is hitting 38.1 three-point percentage. So, despite not enjoying long-range shots, the King is doing it. And to be honest, he’s got to do it. Because in the current NBA scenes winning games depends largely on how many three-point shots a team takes in a game. Individual stats and records of course count as well.

And while the Lakers continue their battle in the West for that 18th championship. their head coach has picked a row with TNT. What is JJ Redick up to?

LeBron James HC JJ Redick has a beef with TNT

NBA ratings hit a five-year Christmas high, but before that, the usual debates took over—why are they down, does it matter, and, of course, who’s to blame? Enter JJ Redick. Weighing in on the slump, he took a not-so-subtle jab at Inside the NBA, the iconic show known for its hot takes and hilarious chaos. With ESPN set to take over its licensing, Redick’s words felt even sharper.

LeBron James‘ HC, JJ Redick took a swing, and Charles Barkley swung right back. When asked about declining NBA ratings, Redick didn’t hold back. “I don’t think we… have done a good job of storytelling, of celebrating the game,” he said. He blamed TV voices for making fans believe “the product sucks.” That wasn’t just a hot take—it was a not-so-subtle jab at Inside the NBA. And if there’s one thing Barkley doesn’t do, he doesn’t let a jab slide.

So, Chuck fired off. “Hey JJ… we’re the reason people ain’t watching this crappy product you got?” he shot back. Then came the knockout: “You come for the king, you better not miss.” He wasn’t done, either. Comparing Redick’s Lakers gig to “putting makeup on a pig,” Barkley made it clear—he’s watching, he’s laughing, and he’s ready to keep the heat coming.

Surely, the Lakers are already in trouble without any depth in their roster despite LeBron James and Anthony Davis’ repeated requests. However, the lights of hope ain’t dim yet, and maybe better sharpshooting strategies especially from Bron could step things up for the Purple and Gold. JJ Redick is also caught up in the drama off the heated court. It’s a weirdly interesting situation, and we are just waiting for more updates and entertainment!