JJ Redick, a former NBA shooting guard with no prior coaching experience in the league, was officially announced as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. Celebrating his 40th birthday on the same day, Redick takes over the position previously held by Darvin Ham, who was dismissed in May following a two-season tenure with the team.
Despite his lack of coaching experience, Redick believes he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. He credits his 22-year journey, starting from his time at Duke University where he played under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski for four years, followed by his 15-year NBA career.
Redick also emphasized the importance of his recent endeavors in podcasting and working as an ESPN analyst over the past three years. He believes that these experiences have allowed him to connect with players, engage in coaching interviews, and analyze the game from various angles. Redick firmly believes that this unique combination of experiences has prepared him to step into the role of an NBA head coach.
Redick had a successful 15-year career in the NBA, playing for six different teams. In 2021, he transitioned into an NBA analyst role for ESPN.
During the hiring process, Redick was asked if he had heard any misconceptions or concerns about himself that he wanted to address. He responded honestly, stating that he didn’t care about any rumors or opinions. His primary focus was on becoming a great coach for the Lakers, and he had no interest in dispelling any doubts.
The Lakers’ decision to hire Redick was not a surprise. The team’s Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager, Rob Pelinka, spoke highly of Redick’s unique perspective and philosophy on basketball during the news conference. It was clear that Redick was always on their list of top candidates.
Pelinka and Redick have a shared basketball philosophy focused on high-level strategy, effective communication with players, and prioritizing player development. Redick expressed his desire for Lakers star LeBron James to take more three-point shots, considering his impressive 40% shooting this season. However, Redick mentioned the need for a conversation with James to discuss his preferences and how to utilize him effectively in the half-court offense as both a scorer and facilitator. It remains uncertain whether Redick will have the opportunity to coach James, as James has the option to exercise his contract or explore other options next season.
James has yet to make a definitive statement regarding his future with the team or whether he plans to return for his 22nd NBA season.
In a post on X on April 30, James addressed the speculation surrounding his future, stating, “I’ve seen and heard numerous reports about what’s next for me. I want to make it clear that right now, my focus is solely on spending time with my family and friends.”
He further added, “Once I have had discussions with my family, advisors, and representation, I will share any updates with you all.”
Redick, on the other hand, expressed his belief that Anthony Davis, a nine-time All-Star center, will play a pivotal role for the team in the upcoming season. Redick recently had a conversation with Davis, discussing potential offensive and defensive strategies.
“We both agreed on a solid foundation for his role within the team moving forward,” Redick revealed.
The Lakers have a history of hiring individuals with no coaching experience to lead the team. Back in 1994, when the team was struggling, owner Jerry Buss appointed Magic Johnson as the interim coach for the final 16 games. Despite a 5-11 record, Johnson eventually resigned and became a part-owner.
Recently, the Lakers pursued University of Connecticut men’s basketball head coach Dan Hurley for their vacant coaching position. However, Hurley decided to stay with the Huskies and chase a third-straight national title. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Lakers offered Hurley a six-year, $70 million contract.
Despite the unsuccessful pursuit of Hurley, Lakers shooting guard J.J. Redick expressed no hard feelings towards the team’s efforts. Redick understood that Hurley’s accomplishments as a two-time national champion at UConn outweighed his own achievements as a two-time 55 Swiss league champion in the 3rd and 4th grade division.
In the previous season, the Los Angeles team suffered a defeat in the playoffs, losing to the Denver Nuggets, who were the reigning champions at the time, for the second consecutive postseason.
As of now, the Lakers possess the 17th pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft, which will take place on Thursday.
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