Yes, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired JJ Redick as their new head coach
The Los Angeles Lakers’ hunt for a new coach has come to an end, with the franchise finally deciding to hire the former 76ers player turned analyst.
While there were rumors of others and a rather highly publicized interview with UConn’s veteran coach, Dan Hurley, the Lakers have decided to go with a former player and one who it has to be said has a close working relationship with the team’s star
Lakers hire JJ Redick
According to reports on Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers hired ESPN NBA analyst and former 15-year veteran of the league, JJ Redick, as the franchise’s next head coach. The first-time coach reportedly put pen to paper on a four-year contract that will see him earn more than $8 million per season, while working alongside the man he co-hosts a podcast with, Lakers star LeBron James. Of course, there is some degree of uncertainty surrounding James and the $51.4 million player option that he has.
On one side, the 39-year-old could simply opt into the final year of his contract, sign an extension and play out the remainder of his career in LA. On the other, he could hit free agency which would see him exploring other options in the league. With no word on what James will do, we can only assume that his future plans will be confirmed in the near future now that the team has a coach and one that James openly respects and admires. Indeed, it would be surprising at this point to see James leave.
As for Redick himself, it’s understood that the demonstration of his basketball IQ throughout the interview process, along with his time on television and with his two podcasts (one of which he works alongside James) were the major selling points for general manager Rob Pelinka. Further to that, the front office has the belief that Redick’s lack of experience can be compensated for by his ability to connect with players, as well as the use of elite assistant coaches. To that end, they hope to reduce the time it takes him to find a rhythm. It’s worth noting that Redick was linked with the job from the moment it was announced that the Lakers were looking for a coach. Following Dan Hurley’s rejection, the franchise once again focused on Redick and here we are. Now, we can only wait and watch.