Being a star of the ‘LeBron James’ caliber comes synced with authoritative power. Take the case of the Lakers itself. The front office won’t make a decision that dissatisfies the King, seemingly. However, in recent weeks his involvement in the decision-making process has become a polarizing point of discussion. His agent, Rich Paul, claimed LBJ has no say in choosing the next head coach. On the other hand, analysts feel he is the be-all and end-all of such choices. Recently. Stephen A. Smith claimed the 20x All-Star is grooming JJ Redick to be the next HC, an obvious replacement for Darvin Ham. Now, even Charles Barkley is echoing similar sentiments!

During an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, the host riddled the Chuckster about the news of LeBron James being ashore when the Lakers made their HC call. Traina had assumed Bron was undoubtedly involved. Barkley concurred too, laughing at the notion that LeBron James doesn’t have a say. “I am glad you brought that up because J.B. Bickerstaff, Frank Vogel, and Darvin Ham all got screwed,” Barkley said.

“Blaming coaches, that’s become the norm now. It’s really unfair. But listen, the Lakers are not going to make any decision without running it by LeBron,” he told SI. The Hall of Famer even busted out his iconic ‘guarantee’ when making the distinct claim. “The Lakers are not going to hire a coach without talking to LeBron. That is an insult to all of us,” Barkley assertively concluded.

Judging from comments alone, it’s difficult to disobey Rich Paul, saying his client isn’t involved. But can that really be true? LeBron James is the essence of the Lakers side despite turning 40 next season. Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss must acknowledge the fact, too.

If the Lakers were to hire someone that disappoints Bron, he could easily choose to enter the free market and relocate. The wise decision seems to be the Lakers working in cahoots with LeBron James to choose the most viable coaching option. But who knows what’s going on behind the curtains? Maybe the vet isn’t a part of the discussions after all.

How close is JJ Redick to becoming LeBron James and Co.’s HC?

The Lakers have been working meticulously in their hunt to fill the head coaching vacancy in the organization. They have held lengthy interviews with several candidates, including James Borrego, Sam Cassell, and, of course, JJ Redick.

However, according to Chris Haynes, Redick is the only name reverberating around the Lakers. “Everything that I’m hearing is JJ Redick. From what I know, he’s doing some background, calling some assistant coaching candidates who might be able to join his staff,” the NBA insider when speaking to Dan Patrick.

The talk around Redick becoming the next head coach began when he and LeBron James partnered together for a podcast together. ‘Mind the Game’ has become a weekly gig for the two, and they seem in tune with their expert analysis. Due to his work commitments with ABC to work as a broadcaster during the NBA Finals in the coming week, it is believed Redick’s announcement will be delayed.

Do you want to see Redick lead the Purple and Gold? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Also, if you want an insight into the future of Inside the NBA, watch our first episode with Leonard Armato, a former agent to Shaquille O’Neal in the video below.