Amidst swirling rumors and eager anticipation, Saturday marked an important moment for JJ Redick, the frontrunner for the Lakers’ head coach position. His formal interviews with key members of the organization finally took place. After much speculation and buzz around the NBA community, Redick finally had an official meeting. Moreover, there is a chance that the former LA Lakers player might land the job of Pelinka’s long coach hunt. However, there were various reasons for his relevance as a coach. Some veteran players in purple and gold jerseys have played against the ESPN broadcaster in the past.
Additionally, there were questions about the veteran players who have played against Redick in the NBA, who are still present on the team, and who can accept the former as the coach. The question was asked again to former Lakers player Danny Green on the ‘Lakers Nation’ podcast. The 36-year-old did mention the downside of Redick being the coach with some veteran players on the roster as he said, “If a guy has seen you play or played against you play, it’s hard for them to have that same respect when you’re peers.” Still moving further, the NBA player implied that it was not a big deal as he explained, “In today’s world, there are so many young people. So many guys with jobs and positions that are younger than some of the players.“
Green said that Redick’s coach position might not affect the players. There are very few players whose average playing time in the league is quite long, like LeBron James and D’Angelo Russell. Russell has played against Redick as well. However, due to the low average of longtime players, the problem of a young coach might not affect the whole team, as per Green. Overall, Green’s argument seems fair, as Redick has a fairly analytical mind with a great grasp of the game.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Are the Lakers sure to go with JJ Redick’s head coach position ahead?
Though the formal interviews are done, Redick’s HC job is still dubious. After the interviews, there were some internal rumors that some of the members within the management voiced their concerns about each hiring. According to them, it is not necessary to hire a new guide for the team before the NBA draft, scheduled to happen on June 26-27. Notably, the Lakers have also got roster troubles that they need to discuss and plan before the draft.
If the team management only focuses on Redick’s job as a coach, there’ll be no good team to win the championship. The priorities for Rob Pelinka might also change if the new roster does not align with Redick. Therefore, once he decides team members, they should go for a coach hunt. Nevertheless, Redick is not the only one up for the role.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Boston assistant Sam Cassell, Minnesota assistant Micah Nori, and Denver assistant David Adelman were also on the Lakers front office’s list. Interestingly, Redick is not sure to get the position even after being the frontrunner. What do you all think? Will Redick get the role for the better of the purple and gold jerseys? Let us know in the comments.
Before leaving, make sure to check out some insights that Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about WNBA star rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad