JJ Redick: Moving Grizzlies to Nashville "makes sense"

What Los Angeles Lakers' new coach JJ Redick said on his podcast less than a year ago may lead Memphis fans to make him feel unwelcomed when he visits the FedExForum in the upcoming season.

On an episode of 'The Old Man and the Three' published in September 2023, Redick asked retired NBA players Evan Turner and Andre Iguodala the following question, which he said was only hypothetical:

"Disregarding Seattle, if you could add one NBA team to any city, what would that city be?" Reddick asked, as reported by Nick Gray of the Nashville Tennessean .

Evan Turner: Take Grizzlies out of Memphis

A 10-year NBA veteran, Turner played for five teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers and Philadelphia 76ers. He averaged 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 705 regular-season games.

His reply to Reddick's "hypothetical" question will infuriate Grizzlies fans who live in Memphis.

"I'll put it in Nashville," he said. "Take (the Grizzlies) out of Memphis and put the team in Nashville."

"In regards to Nashville, a lot of people are moving from L.A. to Nashville," Turner added. "It'll be a big splash. A lot of people are waiting for a team like that out there."

" OK, I like it." Redick responded .

What Redick says matters in NBA

Later in the conversation, Redick added: “Nashville makes sense.”

Redick, who played 15 seasons in the NBA, was the first player to start a weekly podcast during the regular season. His podcast became a must-hear amongst players and fans. Even after he retired in 2021, his podcast continued, and his words reach millions of people.

While the words of Turner (a relatively forgotten figure) don't mean much to Memphis fans, the response of Redick (a respected former player and leading ESPN game commentator, currently coaching one of the most popular teams) is bound to be remembered. Grizzlies fans should be concerned.

Considering Redick's status in the league, his words have sway, and can influence decision makers and normalize the idea of Memphis losing its NBA team.

On November 7, they will have their opportunity to let Redick know what they think about his opinions. That evening, the Lakers will play the Grizzlies in the FedExForum, Memphis' home arena, which holds 18,100 Memphsonians each game. Expect it to be loud.

Related: Ex-NBA Player Jimmer Fredette to Make History At 2024 Paris Olympics