Lakers News: Coach JJ Redick’s LA Fate Is in the Hands of 31YO All-Star and Not LeBron James

Time is of the essence here for the Los Angeles Lakers, and their search for Darvin Ham‘s successor reflects just that. Ham’s inability to bring a chip to LA in his two years at the helm can have far-reaching consequences, as LeBron James only has a few good years left. Now, the Laker’s search for a better replacement has led them to several candidates, including JJ Redick.

Redick has been eyeing the top job, despite not having the resume for that role due to his close association with James. However, according to a recent report by the Athletic, Bron might not be a deciding factor in the selection of the head coach. Instead, “This should be more of a hire about AD than LeBron,” said sources.

The article sheds further light on the matter by stating that, “The Lakers are seeking a coach who will command the locker room and hold players accountable, as well as tirelessly gameplan and provide a level of structure and organization, according to those sources.” Due to that fact, Tyronn Lue LA Clippers head coach, Frank Vogel, and other big names such as Mike Budenholzer are in the mix with JJ.

While Redick is on the interview schedule this week, the Laker’s new “premium on maximizing Davis’ greatness,” can pose a challenge. As the same article suggests, “The franchise’s next coach will be tasked with guiding both the end of the LeBron James–Anthony Davis era — potentially a two-year window — and then the next era of Lakers basketball led by Davis. ”

This leaves us with a question – is JJ better than the coaches he’s contending with?

Is JJ Redick capable of guiding the Lakers into the AD era?

The other two coaches JJ is in contention with this week are James Borrego, who has a coaching career spanning two decades, most notably being the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets. The other is Sam Cassell, an assistant coach of the title favorites, the Boston Celtics. Both the them have significantly more experience in handling a roster filled to the brim with superstars and win while they are doing it.

Redick’s resume doesn’t mirror theirs in terms of experience. However, game tactics and having great coach-player dynamics are where Redick might eclipse both those names. From his podcast with LeBron, it is easy to understand that Redick is a basketball savant, proficient in breaking the game down.

This tactical approach might go over well with Davis, who is looking to win another ring. Can Reddick nab the top job? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.