JJ Redick makes his feelings clear on James Harden with unfiltered praise - "He’s seen every gimmick"

JJ Redick's LA Lakers take on the James Harden-led LA Clippers on Sunday in their first of four matchups this season. Ahead of the contest, the rookie coach reflected on Harden's illustrious NBA career and expressed effusive admiration for his former on-court adversary.

Redick and Harden matched up 33 times in the regular season and playoffs over Redick's 15-year playing career, with Harden securing a 19-14 advantage. However, Sunday marks Redick's first time facing the 2018 MVP as a coach.

During his pregame remarks, the ex-sharpshooter raved about Harden's basketball IQ and elite offensive repertoire. Redick added that there is little he can throw at the 10-time All-Star to catch him off guard at this point in his career.

"He's one of the smartest players that has played in this generation," Redick said. "He can dice up your defense in a number of ways. He's seen every coverage, he's seen every gimmick, and he continues to produce at a high level."

Harden is still thriving as a scorer and playmaker in his age-35 season. Through 38 outings, he is averaging 21.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.4 steals and 2.8 3-pointers per game, shooting 39.8%. His strong play has helped the Clippers remain competitive despite playing most of the season without superstar forward Kawhi Leonard.

The Clippers (23-17) and Lakers (22-17) are battling for positioning in the crowded Western Conference, sitting fifth and sixth entering Sunday. Both teams will look to extend their hot streaks, with the Lakers coming off two straight victories and the Clippers riding a three-game winning streak.

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JJ Redick impressed with James Harden-led Clippers' new arena

Sunday's showdown also marks JJ Redick's first game at the Clippers' state-of-the-art, $2 billion-worth Intuit Dome, which opened in August. Aside from praising James Harden, Redick, who played four seasons for the franchise (2013-2017), lauded Clippers owner Steve Ballmer for actualizing his longtime vision.

"Steve coming in and truly being one of the best owners in sports, as evidenced by what's about 200 feet from us," Redick said (Timestamp: 0:40). "I got here about two o'clock and had to go see it for myself. First time. Well done."

Sunday's clash should be the first of many for Redick against his former squad. The Lakers next face their crosstown rivals at Intuit Dome on Feb. 4 before hosting them at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 28 and March 2.

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