The Los Angeles Lakers are close to selecting a new head coach, with JJ Redick unexpectedly emerging as a top contender. This potential candidate has generated a lot of debate in the NBA, as opinions differ on Redick’s preparedness for a high-profile position.
Former Lakers player Carmelo Anthony, who is an 11-time NBA All-Star, is offering his opinion on the matter. Expressing his thoughts openly on the “7PM in Brooklyn” podcast, Anthony explained why Redick could be a strong candidate for the Lakers’ next head coach, even though he has no coaching background.
Carmelo Anthony’s View on JJ Redick
Carmelo Anthony, with a successful NBA career, has a deeper understanding of professional basketball teams than many others. He thinks that the Lakers could gain from Redick’s new outlook and intelligence, as the team is renowned for its high standards and rich history.
“I’m just saying you brought in Frank [Vogel], won a championship, get out, right,” Anthony noted. “Brought in Darvin Ham, get out. Dan Hurley is not playing that. I’m not taking that job. If I’m the Lakers then I’m going, okay, I don’t know how much longer LeBron is going to be here…we got AD [Anthony Davis] to kind of build around….so if this is the overall, the big picture, why not go get somebody like a JJ Redick who’s young that can rebuild – you’re going to be in rebuild mode…the standards in LA are so high that I don’t even think they know…who to put in that seat.”
Anthony’s remarks point out the lack of certainty regarding the Lakers’ future, especially with veteran player LeBron James. It is clear that a long-term plan is necessary, and Anthony proposes that Redick, despite lacking experience, might be the ideal candidate to guide the team during a possible reconstruction phase.
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Arguing in favor of JJ Redick
JJ Redick, a former NBA player renowned for his accurate shooting and advanced basketball knowledge, has never taken on a coaching role at any point. Nevertheless, his knowledge of the game is highly regarded in the league. Anthony made a point of highlighting Redick’s intelligence and extensive basketball knowledge.
“I think JJ is a very smart man. I think he’s a very– when it comes to sports, he knows his stuff,” Anthony said. “How does that translate to a coach? It sounds easy, but when you’re playing, when you’re coaching arguably the best player in the world. It’s funny because I think I know LeBron in a very good way…I do believe that he’s saying, yo, do what y’all got to do.”
Anthony acknowledges the challenge Redick would face in coaching LeBron James, one of the game’s greatest minds. However, he believes Redick’s smart approach and understanding of the sport could translate well to a coaching role, particularly with a player like LeBron, who appreciates intelligent and strategic thinking.
A Fresh Approach
The potential hiring of JJ Redick signifies a possible shift in the Lakers’ approach. With the team looking to build around Anthony Davis and possibly prepare for a future without LeBron James, bringing in a younger coach who can relate to and develop young talent could be a strategic move.
Redick’s youth and recent experience as a player might help him connect with the current roster in ways that more traditional, seasoned coaches might not. His ability to relate to players and understand the modern NBA could provide the Lakers with a fresh approach to team management and player development.
The ongoing situation with the Lakers’ coaching staff.
The Lakers have had a lengthy and meandering journey in their search for a new head coach. The selection of JJ Redick would be an unorthodox pick, especially considering the presence of Ty Lue and Dan Hurley in the mix before. However, this out-of-the-box thinking could be advantageous for a franchise facing an unclear future.
Carmelo Anthony’s backing of Redick reflects a growing trend in the NBA that emphasizes the importance of strong basketball knowledge and being relatable in coaching positions. The Lakers’ potential appointment of Redick could mark a new era as teams value player-coach relationships and strategic thinking more.
The Path Forward
Whether JJ Redick will be chosen as the next head coach for the Lakers is still uncertain, but the discussion about his potential candidacy speaks to his esteemed reputation in the basketball world. The choice will definitely impact the Lakers’ future, a team with a storied history and high aspirations.
Carmelo Anthony’s perspective is valuable in understanding the potential contributions Redick could make in the role. While the Lakers look for new additions, the idea of JJ Redick taking on a coaching role adds an interesting element to the story. It is uncertain if he can apply his intelligence from playing on the court to a prosperous coaching career, but the potential is certainly thrilling for both Lakers fans and the NBA community.