The Detroit Pistons signed Monty Williams last year on a six-year $78.5 million deal. This was by far one of the biggest contracts signed by any head coach. The Pistons finished the 2023-24 season with a 14-68 record and came in with a similar record before that too. But then again, his surprising firing was a major shock to the NBA fraternity. Yes, the Pistons have finally dismissed Monty William, who is now available on the market, while the Lakers are looking for their next replacement. And speaking of the Lakers, they’ve since forever considered JJ Redick as the top HC pick, but now that Williams is on the market, things might change.

The Lakers’ hunt has been going on ever since they fired Darvin Ham. Since then, they’ve interviewed quite a few candidates, including UConn head coach Dan Hurley. They offered Hurley a $70 million deal, but he did not hesitate to reject the offer. Of course, the fans weren’t too happy about it, as Hurley is one of the most respected coaches in collegiate basketball. However, there was one other favorable option. JJ Redick quickly became the favorite to coach the Lakers next season until recently. With Monty Williams on the market, this puts a lot of pressure on Redick’s candidature.

Adrian Woj was among the first NBA insiders to report the surprise firing. Pistons parted ways with Williams with 5 years still remaining on his contract, along with $65 million in total.

Williams might be a good choice for the Lakers since he actually has coaching experience, unlike Redick. He’s played the role of a reputed coach for over 9 years now and has the talent and accolades to back him. Redick, however great his basketball IQ might be, is still a rookie when it comes to actually coaching a traditional franchise like the Lakers. But then again, the reason why Redick became the favorite to coach the Lakers was possibly due to his podcast with LeBron James. James and Redick started their podcast a couple of months ago where they talk all things basketball. From famous plays to everything related to an NBA player’s success, the two have put out realistic content, especially coming from a player’s perspective.

It would be interesting to see LeBron and Redick mutually plan out strategies before games. But now with Monty Williams in the picture, there are again two paths for the Lakers to choose from. Who will it be?

Even if we don’t know, fans sure do have their pick!

Lakers fans did not hesitate to change their decision on JJ Redick

Fans have their picks ready, and as soon as the news broke, they were willing to give up on the Redick bandwagon and rope in Monty Williams in the picture. Williams has led the Suns to a Finals appearance back in 2021, and it was arguably one of the best runs by Phoenix in history. Fans are hoping he will light the way for the Lakers too. Williams is definitely more experienced when it comes to dealing with veterans like Bron and AD, too, so it’s like a win-win for everyone.

One of the fans commented “Lakers get on it” wasting no time.

Fans are eager as they want the Lakers to act immediately before any other team signs him.

Another fan is already set to bid adieu to Redick! This fan writes, “Bye Bye JJ”,

Well, the kind of excitement on display here. It shows how much they trust Redick’s coaching skills.

And with over $65 million remaining on his contract over five years, one fan also suggested that the Lakers pay him less while letting the Pistons take care of the rest of his finances.

Well, it’s not a bad deal. Again, it will be a win-win situation for Williams and the Lakers.

Another one feels that he should jump on the bandwagon and seal the deal on the Lakers’ behalf.