Key Takeaways:
– NBA star LeBron James is reportedly not involved in LA Lakers’ head coach selection process.
– James has not expressed any preference for a particular candidate, including podcast co-host JJ Redick.
– Redick, James Borrego, and Sam Cassell are principal contenders for the role.
– The Lakers management seeks a new coach with strong leadership abilities and sound tactical acumen.
LeBron James Stays Clear of Lakers’ Coach Hunt
Contrary to customary NBA trends, LeBron James, the LA Lakers superstar, is refraining from participating in the team’s ongoing coaching search. This news was relayed by Shams Charania from The Athletic, who reported that James had refrained from expressing any preference for a specific successor for Darvin Ham.
James Remains Neutral on Redick’s Candidacy
Speculations have been swirling about the possibility of James favoring JJ Redick, his “Mind the Game” podcast co-host, for the Lakers’ coaching position. However, Charania has debunked such rumors. He quoted James saying that the Lakers’ coaching decision is purely an organizational matter. He also confirmed James has had no discussions with Redick regarding the coaching position, despite their podcast connection.
Redick Expresses Interest in Transition to Coaching
As the successor issue heats up, Redick, the now-retired NBA sharpshooter, has publicly spoken of his desire to shift from broadcasting to coaching. He admitted as much on “The Pivot” podcast on April 30. The timing seems to be aligning, as reports suggest he’s a frontrunner for the Lakers position. However, he also affirmed his commitment to the new career path he has built over the past three years, indicating the decision to coach may not be immediate.
Other Contenders in the Lakers’ Coaching Sweepstakes
Aside from Redick, Borrego, and Cassell, the Lakers are supposedly considering five assistant coaches from different NBA teams. This list includes Nuggets’ David Adelman, Heat’s Chris Quinn, Warriors’ Kenny Atkinson, Timberwolves’ Micah Nori and Mavericks’ Sean Sweeney. The new coach’s role will be to command and maintain control of the locker room, provide structured organization, and prepare tireless game plans.
Structure and Command Take Center Stage in Search
The Lakers are reportedly focusing on selecting a coach who can instill a level of structure and organization within the team. Importantly, the coach should also be able to hold players accountable for their actions. Such characteristics are expected to be key attributes of Ham’s successor.
Leisurely Approach to Finding a New Coach
The Lakers’ front office, according to insiders, isn’t racing to appoint the next head coach. Instead, the organization is prepared to undergo an extensive process before announcing Ham’s successor. This measured approach underscores the organization’s commitment to strengthening the team’s leadership for future successes.
In conclusion, while it’s common for star NBA players to have a say in front office decisions, LeBron James is charting a different course. Even as rumors speculate about his preferences, James has consciously stepped away from the Lakers’ coaching search, upholding his belief in the organization’s decision-making process.