Inexperienced Lakers coach JJ Redick, having played, analyzed, and hosted podcasts, asserts readiness for his new role due to his past endeavors.
J redick, celebrating his 40th birthday just yesterday, takes over from Darvin Ham, who was let go back in May following two seasons with the Lakers.
"I've got zilch coaching experience in the NBA, but I'd contend that I'm pretty experienced, and it all started 22 years ago when I went to Duke and played for Coach K (Mike Krzyzewski) for four years. I spent another 15 years as an NBA player," he said.
Redick mentions that the past three years, spent as a podcaster and ESPN analyst, have been crucial in his coaching preparation.
"Being able to connect with the players, chatting with them on the podcast, interviewing coaches for ESPN, breaking down games in three different formats – it's all helped get me ready to be an NBA head coach," he said.
A reporter inquired if Redick had heard any misconceptions or concerns about himself in recent weeks that he felt compelled to address during the hiring process. Redick candidly responded.
"It's a fair question, and yeah, I've heard it all... But fact is, I don't really give a rat's ass. I want to coach the Lakers. I want to lead this team. I'm not here to debunk anything... I aim to be an exceptional coach in the NBA."
The man responsible for Redick's hiring stated that he was on their shortlist from the get-go.
"He's got a unique outlook and philosophy on basketball and how it should be taught," Lakers Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka stated at the press conference.
Pelinka added that he and Redick share a basketball philosophy focused on high-level strategy, effective communication, and player development.
Redick intimated that he'd like to see Lakers star forward LeBron James take more three-pointers following his impressive 40% shooting success this season, but he still needs to discuss it with James.
"You gotta get buy-in and talk to him about how he wants to play," Redick said. "It's figuring out in the half court, putting him in different spots both as a scorer and a facilitator."
Redick is co-host of a basketball podcast with James. However, it remains to be seen if he will get the chance to coach James, who has the option to extend his contract for another season in five days or move on.
James has yet to publicly comment on his future with the team or whether he will continue for his 22nd NBA season.
On April 30, James wrote on his social media platform, "I've seen, heard a ton of rumors about my future. I said it last night, and I'll say it again – I'm uncertain yet as I'm only focusing on spending time with my family and friends!
"When I know after speaking with the fam, my advisors, and my representation, then you'll know."
Redick sees nine-time all-star center Anthony Davis as the team's centerpiece next season so the Lakers can optimize his talents. He had a conversation about Davis' roles in offense and defense with Davis about a week ago.
"I think both of us felt quite comfortable focusing on that as the foundation for Davis' role on this team," Redick said.
This isn't the first time the Lakers have tapped someone with no coaching experience to lead the team. In 1994, with the team underperforming, owner Jerry Buss entrusted Magic Johnson to steer the team for the final 16 games, and he finished with a 5-11 record before stepping down and becoming a co-owner.
Earlier this month, the University of Connecticut men's basketball head coach Dan Hurley rejected the Lakers for their vacant head coaching position in favor of chasing a third-straight national title with the Huskies.
The Lakers offered the head coach of the defending back-to-back NCAA champion Huskies a six-year, $70 million contract, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Redick conveyed that he was fine with the Lakers' pursuit of Hurley.
"My ego or feelings weren't bruised or injured in any way," he said. "Dan Hurley is a two-time national champion at UConn. I got it."
Last season, the Lakers were knocked out of the playoffs in five games, losing to the then-reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, for the second straight postseason.
The Lakers currently occupy the 17th pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft on Thursday.
