LA Lakers Choose JJ Redick as Head Coach

LA Lakers have appointed JJ Redick, a former player and television pundit, as their new head coach in an unexpected move. Redick, after a successful 15-year playing career and transition to punditry with ESPN, enters the coaching role inexperienced. Besides his broadcasting work, the 40-year-old also co-hosts a basketball podcast with Lakers’ star, LeBron James.

“I am honored to join the LA Lakers, one of the most iconic and successful sports franchises globally,” commented an enthusiastic Redick on his appointment. This transition marks a change of guard, as Redick takes over from Darvin Ham, whom the Lakers dismissed in May.

During the appointment discussion, Lakers’ VP Rob Pelinka praised Redick’s competitiveness, basketball IQ and modern game understanding. Pelinka also emphasized the meticulous selection process that led to choosing Redick, citing his immediate impact and long-term development. In contrast, Dan Hurley, the University of Connecticut head coach, declined a $70 million offer for the Lakers coaching role.

Sam Harris, a BBC Sport journalist, offers an analysis that paints the Lakers’ decision in an unconventional light for one of the world’s premier sports organizations. Redick, known for his sharpshooting during his playing days has earned recognition for his ESPN analysis and successful podcast with James. Intriguingly, he now sets his sights on building around James as head coach.

Redick, who hung up his boots in 2021, is slightly older than James and entered the NBA draft three years after him. Now tasked with coaching the Lakers’ legend in possibly his final season, Redick’s focus may be securing James’ future. Interestingly, the four-time NBA champion could become a free agent if he declines his $51.4 million (£40.6 million) player option at the end of June.

This decision could dramatically shape the Lakers’ trajectory under Redick’s leadership in the coming seasons.