The Los Angeles Lakers have hired JJ Redick as their new head coach, signing him to a four-year deal worth $8 million per season. Redick, a 15-year NBA veteran, has impressed Lakers ownership and management with his coaching philosophy and vision for the team. He plans to focus on maximizing the talents of stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, while also developing younger players on the roster, such as Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie.
Redick’s path to becoming a head coach has been rapid, as he retired from playing in 2021 and quickly transitioned to a career in broadcasting and podcasting. Despite his lack of coaching experience at the professional level, Redick has long desired to become an NBA head coach and has actively pursued opportunities to make that happen. His hiring by the Lakers marks a significant moment in his basketball journey and he is eager to tackle the challenges that come with coaching a high-profile team like the Lakers.
The Lakers’ coaching search initially included meetings with several candidates, including Dan Hurley, the head coach of the UConn Huskies, who was offered a lucrative contract by the Lakers but ultimately decided to stay at UConn. The team ultimately decided to hire Redick after reassessing their options and gaining support from key players, including Anthony Davis. The organization believes that Redick has the potential to be a long-term coaching solution for the franchise.
Redick’s coaching staff is expected to include experienced names such as Scott Brooks, Rajon Rondo, Jared Dudley, and Sam Cassell. His hire comes at a crucial time for the Lakers as they prepare for the NBA Draft and navigate LeBron James’ upcoming free agency decision. The team is hopeful that Redick’s leadership and strategic approach will help guide them through a successful transition into the next era of Lakers basketball.
The decision to hire Redick represents a shift in the Lakers’ coaching strategy, as they have had multiple head coaches since Phil Jackson’s departure in 2011. Redick is seen as a potential culture-setter for the franchise, drawing comparisons to successful coaches like Erik Spoelstra and Steve Kerr. The team is confident that Redick’s background as a respected former player and his passion for the game will translate into a successful coaching career with the Lakers.
Overall, Redick’s hiring marks a new chapter for the Lakers as they look to build a cohesive and competitive team around their star players. With a focus on player development, strategic planning, and strong leadership, the organization is optimistic about the future under Redick’s guidance. As he steps into his first head coaching role, all eyes will be on Redick to see how he steers the Lakers through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the NBA landscape.
