BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers National Football League NFL Fans Reacts in Shock As Coach JJ Redick makes Surprising statement Announcing that Star Forward Darius Bazley will return from injury and continue as the new….see more

In a dramatic twist that has sent waves across both basketball and mistakenly-informed football communities, Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick has announced that star forward Darius Bazley—who recently suffered a concerning knee injury during the NBA Summer League—will make a full recovery and return to action sooner than expected.

During a press briefing earlier today, Redick made the surprise revelation that Bazley will not only rejoin team activities by the end of the preseason but will also take on a new elevated leadership role in the Lakers’ rotation. While details of the role are still emerging, insiders suggest Bazley will be positioned as a key defensive anchor and forward rotation starter, with plans to build the team’s new defensive scheme around his versatility and athleticism.

“Darius is not just coming back—he’s coming back stronger, smarter, and ready to lead. He will be the difference-maker this season,” Redick told reporters at the Lakers’ training facility.

While fans were thrilled by the recovery update, confusion arose online due to early social media headlines incorrectly stating “NFL Fans” reacting to Lakers news—despite the Lakers being an NBA team, not part of the National Football League. The slip sparked a viral meme trend, with fans jokingly welcoming the Lakers to the NFL as “the newest expansion team.”

Nevertheless, the central story remains: Darius Bazley’s return is real, and Coach JJ Redick is putting major confidence in the young forward as the Lakers prepare for a comeback season.

Stay tuned for more updates as training camp begins and Bazley steps into his new role as a core contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers.