On Monday, the Los Angeles Lakers announced JJ Redick as their new head coach. Renowned for his podcast hosting and NBA analysis, Redick discussed the biggest absence on his list of accomplishments.
Redick said he has no prior experience coaching in the NBA. “I’m not sure if you all are aware of this.”
Redick retired from professional playing in 2021 after a 15-year career, with his coaching debut happening on his 40th birthday. Following a prosperous run at Duke University and a notable experience in the NBA, where he placed 20th in all-time three-pointers, Redick remained involved in basketball through different media positions, such as co-hosting a podcast with LeBron James and commentating on NBA Finals for ESPN and ABC.
Rob Pelinka, Lakers’ VP of basketball operations and GM, stressed that coaching in the NBA is not the sole pertinent experience.
Pelinka highlighted that having NBA head-coaching experience and overall NBA experience can go hand in hand, commending Redick for his ability to bring innovation both as a coach and within the organization. At times, it can be simple to become entangled in routines of similarity. It was crucial for us to try a new approach. JJ’s distinct viewpoint and beliefs about basketball were clear.
JJ Redick acknowledges inexperience, shares vision for Lakers – ESPN. JIM HARDEN ALSO HAS SAME GOAL? https://t.co/O0yLsA68rc
— Ola Coola (@o422coola) June 25, 2024
Redick signed a four-year deal last week, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. In their search for a new coach, the Lakers looked at several options such as Dan Hurley from the University of Connecticut, who rejected a six-year, $70 million deal, as well as James Borrego, Sam Cassell, David Adelman, and Micah Nori.
Redick became interested in coaching after being inspired by his ex-coach at the Dallas Mavericks, Rick Carlisle. Following his interview for a coaching role with the Toronto Raptors in May 2023, Redick was determined to pursue a head coaching job in the NBA.
Redick said that it was after the Toronto interview when he realized he desired to become a head coach. During the past year, I conversed with coaches and GMs to gain insight and knowledge. This is my intended task.
Redick’s podcast with James, “Mind the Game,” will be ending as he shifts his focus to coaching. He stressed that James, a friend and former podcast co-host, kept a certain distance while conducting the interviews in order to prevent any potential conflicts of interest.
Redick mentioned that he did not give any guidance. It was only after I was offered the position that we discussed the Lakers job.
James must make a decision by June 29 whether to activate the last year of his contract with the Lakers or enter free agency with no restrictions. The Lakers are dedicated to extending James’ contract and are willing to present him with a maximum three-year deal.
Pelinka pointed out that James was in favor of the coaching search but decided not to be extensively engaged. On the other hand, Lakers center Anthony Davis showed a lot of interest and enthusiasm for Redick’s hiring.
Redick plans to utilize James’s improved three-point shooting and have Davis control more of the offense. “I talked to him about the idea of him as a hub,” Redick said. “There are many guys at the 5 position in the NBA that operate that way. I don’t know if he’s been maximized in that role.”
Several Lakers players, including Spencer Dinwiddie, Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood, Colin Castleton, and Maxwell Lewis, attended Redick’s introductory press conference.
Redick highlighted that the Lakers’ performance will be determined by the collective abilities of the entire team, rather than just relying on James and Davis. He cited the postseason successes of teams such as the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Indiana Pacers as illustrations.
He said that the Lakers can have “reasonable” championship expectations for next season, even with their recent struggles.
“I don’t look at the current roster as being that far off from a championship-caliber team,” Redick added.
When asked about misconceptions during his candidacy, Redick was straightforward. “I really don’t give a f—,” Redick said. “I want to coach the Lakers. I want to become a great coach in the NBA and win championships. That’s all I f—ing care about.”