Draymond Green: LeBron Loves JJ but 31YO Star’s Demands Could’ve Forced Lakers’ Shocking Decision

In the past couple of hours, the search for a new Los Angeles Lakers head coach has taken a dramatic turn! While former Orlando Magic player JJ Redick was initially the frontrunner for the role, reports indicate that the franchise has now moved towards considering UConn head coach Dan Hurley. Since then, analysts have been attempting to find a reason behind the same. Did JJ Redick withdraw, or did Coach K cause the shift for his benefit? According to Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green, lead scorer LeBron James’ desire for JJ Redick may not be what the rest of the roster would wish for.

Draymond Green released another episode of his long-running podcast a few hours ago. With Cleveland Cavaliers player Danny Green joining as guest host, the duo devoted a significant part of the segment to discussing Dan Hurley’s candidacy for Lakers HC. Since he held the belief that no coach in the NBA is successful without the backing of their best player, the Warriors player stated that JJ Redick would be the best person to take the seat left vacant by Darvin Ham. After all, being co-hosts of their own ‘Mind the Game’ podcast, LeBron and Redick have shown that they share a good rapport. However, no matter how much respect they hold for each other, there are certain decisions that are made with the future in mind. And once LeBron James exits the Lakers, the future will be in the hands of the team’s second-leading scorer, Anthony Davis.

“People don’t understand the dynamic of multiple stars,” said Draymond Green during the episode, adding, “There could be a dynamic where LeBron loves JJ and wants him as the coach. Anthony Davis is a totally different star that may want something else, I don’t know”. Green’s remarks came just a few days after rumors spread that Anthony Davis may not be that enthusiastic about wanting JJ Redick as his instructor. According to NBA Insider Marc Stein, the center/power forward “probably prefers” James Borrego, the current assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans, as the better candidate.

Along with possessing prior experience, having been head coach for Orlando Magic and Charlotte Hornets, Borrego was briefly the coach for Anthony Davis after the latter was drafted in 2012. Therefore, he is someone with whom the player is well-acquainted and can work to secure the Lakers’ progression. As of now, there is a very low chance for the Los Angeles Lakers to go along with James Borrego. However, they are also reportedly not considering JJ Redick as much as they were before. While it can’t be said for sure, Anthony Davis may have played a role in the Lakers’ recent shocking decision.

Trevor Lane addresses the reasons behind the uncertainty surrounding JJ Redick

Weeks before Draymond Green made his remarks, ‘Lakers Nation’ journalist Trevor Lane highlighted that the head coach pick may not be made by taking LeBron James into consideration. After all, at 39 years of age, the All-Time Leading Scorer could announce his retirement within the foreseeable future. Furthermore, with the player having expressed his wish to play alongside his son, Bronny, before making an exit, LeBron could be influenced to join another franchise if Bronny joins the same. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis is 31 years of age and signed a three-year contract extension with the Lakers back in 2023.

“For the time being, that’s the plan”, Lane said, adding, “Two more years with LeBron. We’re transitioning into this being Anthony Davis’s team. He’s their best player. And so, finding pieces that fit AD, including the coach, is going to be more and more of a concern”. Interestingly, Dan Hurley may not be Anthony Davis’ choice either. However, having led the UConn Huskies to over two NCAA Division I Tournament wins, he holds more experience in coaching than JJ Redick ever did.

Before leaving, be 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.