Former Philadelphia 76ers‘ sharpshoot JJ Redick recently tweeted out a photo that raised quite a few eyebrows among Sixers fans. The former Duke standout posted a simple photo of himself in front of a 76ers official backdrop and only added a single smiling emoji to the post.
Many were quick to think that this was a message of Redick’s return to the Sixers. It’s certainly not the first time this season that the idea has come up. Redick is clearly beloved by the Philadelphia fanbase — or at least remembered fondly — but is that enough reason for him to come out of retirement for one more shot? No.
However, it is possible that Redick regrets the way he went out. JJ Redick retired after his worst season in over a decade. His performance certainly wasn’t his fault as he dealt with a series of injuries, including a heel injury that ended his season — and obviously, career. Considering the type of competitor Redick has proven to be, is it possible that Redick wants to go out on a higher note than last season? Yes. But does that mean he’ll sign with the 76ers or any NBA team for that matter? Unfortunately, that’s another no.
While Redick may possibly regret how his career ended — I’ll leave that up to him to say, he’s been vocal about much he’s looked forward to retired life. Redick has since joined ESPN as an analyst, spent more time managing his podcast — “The Old Man and the Three” — and, most importantly, has spent more time with his family. So if he’s not coming out of retirement, then what is he doing?
In short, trolling.
Redick knows exactly what he did with that tweet, and every part of it was cold and calculated. So what’s he actually doing with the Sixers?
Well, the answer likely involves podcasting. Was he joining Georges Niang as one may be a guest on the other’s podcast? Or perhaps talking with Sixers’ veteran and fellow known podcaster Danny Green about all things Sixers, podcasting, and the upcoming matchup between Green’s alma mater (UNC) and Redick’s (Duke)?
Neither actually but very close. As it turns out, Redick will have 76ers star Joel Embiid on his podcast to talk about his potential MVP season and his pursuit of an NBA championship. While the podcast will surely be entertaining it seems like the most boring answer but it was always also the most likely.
The Redick to the Sixers rumors continue to be much ado about nothing, but it’s still a fun concept to think about. Would Redick want to play for Philly? Would the 76ers want Redick over their current depth? We’ll likely know more soon enough whether or not Redick is returning or just trolling.
