Pure Magic: JJ Redick's Duke Pedigree Earns New Contract

J.J. Redick fits the mold.  He was just another Duke star to fall flat on in his face in the NBA.  I can still remember the critics... "He can't play D, create off the dribble, he will never make it in this league."

Today Redick is laughing all the way to the bank.

Not only did one of Duke's most popular and well-known players get a new contract, he also had multiple offers, including one to join fellow Dukie Luol Deng in Chicago.  Today Orlando matched the offer made by the Chicago Bulls, keeping J.J. in blue for another three years.

Redick has come a long way since stepping into the big leagues.  In college his signature shot was almost unstoppable.  Although he was adored by the Duke faithful, he was hated by almost everyone else.  It is said in many circles that he is arguably one of the most hated players of all time.

At Duke, Redick was able to use this hatred as motivation to keep playing at a high level.  Once in the league he had other motivation: the countless amounts of people that assumed he was just another great Duke player that will falter.

While the hatred continued, so did his hard work.  The four-year veteran continually battled injuries, depth, and other issues and is finally making an impact on this team.

Next season Orlando is poised to return to the postseason.  Redick will be a strong part of that.  His shot will be a key part of the game plan if the Magic are going to challenge the Heat and Bulls for the top spot in the East.