JJ Redick Takes Helm as Lakers' New Head Coach
June 20, 2024, 05:30 PM ET—In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Lakers have finalized a deal to hire former NBA player JJ Redick as their next head coach. Redick, 39, will be stepping into the coaching role on a four-year contract, despite having no prior coaching experience. This decision marks a significant shift for the Lakers as they aim to make one final title push with LeBron James.
Redick's Journey and Lakers' Recent Coaching Struggles
After parting ways with previous head coach Darvin Ham, the Lakers initially pursued University of Connecticut (UConn) coach Dan Hurley. However, Hurley declined a substantial six-year, $70 million offer to remain with the Huskies. This opened the door for Redick, who will now attempt to bring a "fresh perspective" to a team that has struggled with coaching stability. Since Phil Jackson's 11-season tenure, the Lakers have not retained a head coach for more than three years and have seen six different full-time coaches since Jackson's retirement in 2011.
Expert Opinions on Redick's Hiring
The reactions to Redick's hiring have been mixed among sports analysts.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst referred to the move as "high risk/high reward," indicating that while Redick brings an innovative approach, the uncertainty due to his lack of coaching experience could pose a challenge. Kevin Pelton noted that this is "not the Lakers' most important decision this offseason," emphasizing that acquiring the right players will be even more crucial for the team's success.
Other analysts, such as Ramona Shelburne, see this as a significant achievement for the Lakers. She described the hiring as "a coup for the Lakers," expressing optimism that Redick might bring a much-needed change in leadership. Bobby Marks also echoed similar sentiments by calling this move "forward thinking." Conversely, Dave McMenamin remarked that while Redick brings a fresh perspective, the former sharpshooter will need better players to succeed.
Challenges Ahead for Redick
Windhorst pointed out that one of the initial tasks at hand for Redick is getting support from General Manager Rob Pelinka to bring in some defensive wing players, a weak spot for the Lakers in recent seasons. Shelburne emphasized the importance of Redick's involvement in the upcoming draft and free agency, where his input could significantly shape this year’s roster. Marks identified two key areas for Redick's focus: building his coaching staff and securing buy-in from star player Anthony Davis.
Pelton expressed skepticism about Redick's hire by suggesting the need for someone with head coaching experience to aid him in this transition. Windhorst speculated that veteran coach Scott Brooks from Southern California could be a potential candidate for an advisory role. Shelburne proposed that Redick could benefit from consulting with his first NBA head coach, Stan Van Gundy. McMenamin threw former Lakers player Rajon Rondo’s name into the mix as a potential assistant coach, while Marks suggested Kevin Ollie, the man Hurley succeeded at UConn.
Expectations and Predictions
The expectations for the Lakers under Redick’s leadership vary among experts. Pelton highlighted that with LeBron James aging, the expectations for the Lakers might become more realistic, potentially easing some pressure on the new head coach. Windhorst warned that if Redick fails, GM Rob Pelinka's job might be on the line. Shelburne highlighted the critical factor of Redick forming a strong bond with Anthony Davis to achieve success, while Marks emphasized the need for self-reflection within the Lakers' organization.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Pelton predicted that if the team remains reasonably healthy, they are likely to slot behind Dallas, Denver, Minnesota, and Oklahoma City. Windhorst brought attention to the Lakers' struggle to break into the top six in the Western Conference, achieving this only once in the past 12 seasons. Shelburne forecasted that barring any major trades or injuries, the Lakers might finish in a similar spot as last season. Marks speculated that the team could end up in the play-in tournament but did not rule out the possibility of failing to make the top 10. McMenamin offered an optimistic take, suggesting that if everything goes right, the Lakers could have a chance at securing the fifth or sixth seed.
Conclusion
JJ Redick's appointment as the Lakers' head coach opens a new chapter for the franchise, brimming with both optimism and uncertainty. With a solid strategy, key player support, and a capable coaching staff, Redick could lead the Lakers to success, making this high-risk move a potentially rewarding endeavor.