Athletes bet on themselves all the time. As a successful proposition, however, that strategy is hit-and-miss. Then, there's the case of J.J. Redick, who took an even bigger risk than just signing a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers; he chose to sign with a team where he could've languished in basketball purgatory for a year.
His $23 million decision worked out. He emerged as the key veteran of a team that broke out of a long malaise and into the Eastern Conference semifinals. His team's run is at its end. But the fascination with Redick's summer is just beginning.
A season with the 76ers
After several seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, Redick signed a one-year deal to join Philly last summer. The ageless shooter rewarded the 76ers with one of his best statistical seasons. The soon-to-be 34-year old averaged 17.1 points per game, a career high. He also dished three assists per game and unleashed his trademark shooting abilities upon the NBA throughout the year.
In the playoffs, he took on even more of the scoring load. With young stars Ben Simmons and Dario Saric struggling, Redick averaged 18.2 points per game, although he only shot .347 from three-point range. Still, his postseason scoring trailed only Joel Embiid on the team. He also saw the court more than anybody but Simmons and Embiid.
The question is whether or not he will ever see the court on behalf of the 76ers again.
Analyzing Redick's future
There's mutual interest in the two sides remaining together for a long time. The guard expressed as much when speaking to reporters following the end of his team's year. Redick said, "I am sure we all hope I am back" (h/t ESPN).
The 76ers certainly have reason to bring him back. The NBA values sharpshooters like Redick. They also value veterans who can steer young teams, as he guided the Sixers back to the playoffs (and to a No. 3 seed) in the Eastern Conference. If he's to return to Philadelphia, however, he would probably have to take a pay cut from the $23 million he earned this season.
He'd have no shortage of options in free agency. Every team is looking for a veteran who could immediately boost their perimeter attack. He could find himself playing a similar role to last season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Or he could replace Danny Green in San Antonio, should that sharpshooter opt out of his contract.
In all likelihood, however, J.J. Redick will be back in Philadelphia next year.
