Updates
Wed, Jun 2nd 2010, 15:56
Magic.com: Redick Proved His Value This Season
Whereas some NBA players like to freelance with their lives away from basketball and function with a spur-of-the-moment mentality, Orlando Magic J.J. Redick could not be more opposite.
Structure rules his life. His wardrobe is carefully put together, with everything from his navy shoes matching his navy golf shirt. Redick doesn’t just enjoy cooking; he is somewhat of a chef in training, putting together elaborate four- and five-course meals. And there are times when he spends more time in front of a mirror than a supermodel, making sure every hair is in place and earning his ``Tom Cruise’’ nickname.
But uncertainty now reigns in Redick’s life what with the Magic having been beaten in the Eastern Conference Finals. He had long ago carefully planned out the summer months, hoping to help the Magic win a title in mid-June, marry his fiancé, Chelsea, in late June, honeymoon in Europe for two weeks and then sign a multi-year contract with the Magic in July.
But there will be no championship run for the Magic, and Redick has had to ponder his future with Orlando much sooner than he planned. It has, in some ways, upset the structure in Redick’s life, causing him to jar himself out of game mode and into the business aspect of the NBA much sooner than he had hoped.
``I’m a guy who processes things – every game, every play, every day and I’ll process the entire season too,’’ Redick said recently. ``But the free-agency thing isn’t on the horizon for me … yet.’’
Redick just enjoyed the best season of his four-year NBA career and proved himself in the playoffs to be a clutch, gritty competitor. He torched the Celtics for 12- and 14-point games in the Magic’s two wins in the East Finals, showing off his growth as a player and guts as a closer.
Redick also showed his value to other teams, and with shooting in the NBA being at a premium, he likely enhanced his value on the free-0agent market. He is a restricted free agent, meaning the Magic can match any offer he gets from another team. And all indications are that the Magic will do just that on any reasonable offer because they value Redick’s toughness, shooting and growth as a player.
Comments
J-Man | on 10/7/10
JJ,
In any decision, the choice which you have the most peace about is usually the correct one.
Jeff
“..the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.”-Romans 8:6
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace…”-Romans 14:19
Lauren | on 24/6/10
Happy Birthday JJ!
- Neil and Lauren.
See you up here in MN next season.
lauren | on 18/6/10
JJ, you are the greatest, most improved player in the NBA, and I would say one of the best players in the NBA..you are amazing and you proved it this season. I really hope you are back in Orlando next season because I love the Orlando Magic and I love you.
J-Man | on 15/6/10
Hey JJ!! Keep on enjoying the journey! You may not be where you want to be (Championship winner) but thank God you’re not where you used to be (riding the end of the bench)!! You’re on your way and you’re doing ok!! Have a great wedding and honeymoon!! Jeff
Barry Ray | on 8/6/10
Redick rules. Join this facebook group please…http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=490992475500&ref=ts
It is a group that wants Redick in next years 3 point contest.
Kestrel | on 7/6/10
JJ congratulations on a terrific season! It was so fun to watch you become the player you are today. I know that you will only grow as a player and as a person and I cannot wait to see it all unfold, what ever and where ever the future holds for you I know that you will continue to grow and prosper and I know that I will be sitting in front if the TV with your jersey cheering you on…Best of Luck…and Crongrats on the wedding! peace, love, and blessings….kestrel