The Los Angeles Laker’s first-round sweep prompted the organization to make radical changes. Among those, first came the firing of their head coach Darvin Ham. The ensuing search for his successor thrust JJ Redick as a prime candidate for the job. The broadcaster’s association with LeBron James is one of the primary reasons for that. However, Redick is one name among a slew of others including Fark Vogel, Ty Lue, and Mike Budenholzer, who seem more suitable for the role due to their experience.
Now, another name is added to the mix, further putting JJ’s aspiration into question. Especially, considering the fact that he’s linked to LeBron’s former team. According to reports “The Lakers are interested in Chris Quinn as a Head Coach candidate. ” Quinn is the top assistant coach for the Miami Heat, where James won two of his four rings.
The Lakers are interested in Chris Quinn as a Head Coach candidate.
(via the Athletic) pic.twitter.com/uQ06FfHVeZ
— 𝙃𝙀𝘼𝙏 𝙉𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 (@HeatvsHaters) May 12, 2024
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Adding to Quin’s resume is the fact he was himself a former Heat player, who after going undrafted was signed to the franchise in 2006; playing with icons such as Gary Payton and Dwyane Wade. Later in 2014, Maimi took him in as an assistant coach and he learned from Eric Spoelstra’s master coaching skills even replacing him on short notice in 2022. Quinn’s philosophy of coaching also seems to be in line with the “Heat culture”.
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“I’m not rewriting the book by any means. We have a system and culture in place,” said the assistant coach when replacing Spo. So, does this make JJ’s chances even slimmer than they were before and Quinn take over the started studded-LA roster?
JJ or Quinn, who’s the better candidate for the Los Angeles Lakers?
Although Redick is a savant when it comes to analysis of the game, his resume falls short. The former sharpshooter doesn’t have any notable coaching stints to speak of. However, his equation with LBJ, in addition to their comfort in reading the game, can be a deciding factor. More so, considering King James has come to be known for an authoritative presence, laying an almost subconscious “pressure.”
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On the flip side, Quinn has significant experience as an assistant coach, even being a part of changing rosters over the years. Despite not winning, the Heat players have seen different teams embark on the championship journey, getting to finals twice in the process.
Ultimately, the front office of the Lakers will go with the candidate who they think can get them closer to another championship. If that means keeping LeBron happy, they might succumb to JJ. However, even LBJ would prefer a ring over anything and will do what he thinks is necessary to get there!