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[Saba Sports News] Lakers fans have long believed that opposing stars always seem to get healthy just in time to play them. Turns out, there’s some truth to it — and JJ Redick has the numbers to back it up.
Before Saturday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, Redick addressed a popular fan theory: that players go out of their way to suit up when the Lakers are on the schedule. Rather than laugh it off, he leaned in — hard.
Redick revealed that earlier this season, he asked the Lakers’ analytics team to investigate. The result? Opposing players have been available against the Lakers at a higher rate than any other team in the NBA.
“I think it’s like 86% of [opposing] payroll has been available to [play] us this year, which is by far No. 1 in the league,” Redick said.
While he didn’t detail the full methodology, the takeaway is pretty clear — players love the spotlight, and the Lakers always bring it. With constant national TV exposure and a huge fanbase, opponents have extra motivation to suit up, even if they’re banged up.
Saturday’s game was no exception. Grizzlies star Ja Morant returned from a six-game absence due to a hamstring injury — just in time for the Lakers. He delivered a strong performance (22 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists), but L.A. still walked away with a 134-127 win.
So next time a star player suddenly feels “miraculously better” just before facing the Lakers? Don’t call it a coincidence. JJ Redick certainly isn’t.
