Key Takeaways:
– NBA player JJ Redick is speculated to become the Lakers’ new head coach.
– Redick, James Borrego, and Sam Cassell have been interviewed, with Redick dubbed as the prime candidate.
– LeBron James’ agent denies his involvement in the Lakers’ hiring process.
– The Lakers seek a coach who can provide stability, accountability, and structure.
– Redick is endorsed by former NBA player, Jamal Crawford, as a “brilliant basketball mind”.
Reshuffling in the Stead: A New Coach for the Lakers?
Recent buzz in the National Basketball Association (NBA) circles has been the speculation of former NBA player, JJ Redick, stepping in as the new head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers. Following the previous Lakers’ head coach, Darvin Ham’s departure, Redick has risen as a favorite contender for the coveted position.
Delineating the Inner Circle’s Choices
Earlier in the week, the Lakers interviewed Redick along with James Borrego and Sam Cassell, known as the team’s lead initial targets in the ongoing coaching search according to The Athletic. The report places Redick (-140) ahead in the lineup followed by Borrego (+425), associated head coach for the Pelicans and Cassell (+500), assistant coach for the Celtics.
Redick is alleged as a figure highly appreciated by the Lakers resulting in them considering him as a potential heir to former Lakers’ coach, Pat Riley. Riley, the current president of Miami Heat, has led the Lakers to four happy victories during his time as the head coach.
Dissociating LeBron’s Involvement in the Hiring Process
The connection between Redick and Lakers’ player LeBron James through their podcast “Mind the Game” has sparked rumors on James’ possible sway in Redick’s recruitment. However, these assumptions were negated by Rich Paul, James’ agent, who stated to The Athletic that James has refrained from influencing the Lakers’ coaching selection.
Analyzing Redick as a Long-Term Coach
With seven coach dismissals in the 13 years following Phil Jackson’s retirement, the Lakers’ front office is now reportedly seeking a long-haul coach to lead the team into the post-LeBron James era.
The Lakers, according to The Athletic, are focusing on a more disciplined and accountable figure who can maintain the locker room atmosphere and provide meticulous game planning. The next coach is viewed more as a recruit for superstar Anthony Davis than for 40-year-old James, who is predicted to have a maximum of two more playing seasons ahead in the NBA.
Endorsement by Jamal Crawford
In an interview with the Pat McAfee Show, former four-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year, Jamal Crawford showcased his support for Redick’s potential coaching position, stating that Redick has the requisite skills to prosper as an NBA head coach.
Crawford’s endorsement highlighted Redick’s superb basketball mind and his passion for coaching. Calling him a “brilliant basketball mind,” Crawford predicted that Redick would fit in perfectly for the coaching role, therefore boosting his credibility as a preferred contender.
In Conclusion
While there are several speculations and rumors regarding the Lakers’ new head coach, the decision remains subjective and will be finalized by the Lakers’ management. However, the endorsement and praise from Crawford magnify Redick’s chances for the position, igniting an exciting anticipation among the Lakers’ fans.