The Lakers’ search for a new head coach might soon be over. Ever since Rob Pelinka and Co. fired Darvin Ham, they have been busy assessing multiple candidates from all around the league to fill the vacant spot. After a couple of rounds of interviews and in-person meetings, the Los Angeles side has primarily shifted its focus to two candidates, retired seasoned campaigner JJ Redick and Pelicans assistant coach James Borrego. But as it turns out, LeBron James’ podcast pal JJ might have a slight edge over everyone else, even garnering early plaudits from Patrick Beverley and the NBA faithful!

According to the latest report by NBA Insider Shams Charania, the Lakers are zeroing in on JJ Redick as the frontrunner for the team’s new head coach. While Rob Pelinka is yet to make a final decision and there are still steps remaining in this process, there are strong indications that JJ might be the first in line. Over the last few weeks, JJ has been thoroughly assessed by the Lakers front office and sources say they are highly “infatuated” by the sharpshooter’s potential. But what about the obvious yet biggest caveat?

While he has never coached a pro basketball team, his IQ and detailed understanding of the game are clearly evident from the way he announces games and dissects the plays on multiple podcasts and live TV. Meanwhile, JJ’s only competition seems to be Borrego, who has also impressed Pelinka. Borrego’s previous connection with Anthony Davis from NOLA could play a big part in the final decision. Apart from these two, they’ve also conducted interviews with Miami’s Chris Quinn, Boston’s Sam Cassell, Minnesota’s Micah Nori, and Denver’s David Adelman. However, there are likely two survivors of which one will walk through the Purple and Gold door.

Laker Nation rejoices ‘early’ for JJ Redick

While the decision is not final yet, Patrick Beverley certainly did not wait for anything to become official. He was the first in line to wish JJ on X, “Congrats @jj_redick big time.” Then followed the entire bandwagon.

Thousands of fans also joined in the early celebration and a fan page was too excited after realizing that JJ could soon be his favorite team’s head coach. Maybe the fans are just relieved that they will finally have a head coach who sees eye to eye with LeBron and there will no longer be a major rift between the coach and the squad like it was with Darvin Ham.

Meanwhile, even @FanDuel could not hold in their excitement and posted a meme where a coach comes off the bench to score a clutch three for his team, claiming that JJ would do the same as the Lakers head coach when they need him! Not to forget, JJ was one of the best shooters in league history with a career 41.5% from deep.

Another Lakers faithful called JJ’s hiring a done deal and even predicted the new staff that would assist him. With several reports suggesting that the Lakers might be looking at Rajon Rondo to become an assistant coach, this fan predicted the Lakers would hire Rondo and Phil Handy as the new backroom staff.

Calling JJ an amazing choice, one fan even credited legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski for extending his lineage. That’s because Coach K has been helping the Lakers throughout the hiring process to assess which candidate would best fit their culture and plan. Notably, JJ played under Coach K for 4 years when he was at Duke, so he knows exactly what Redick is capable of despite his lack of coaching experience.

While the NBA world has given its verdict by showering JJ with love and praises, the only thing left now is for the Lakers to hit that ‘confirm’ button and make this a reality. It then remains to be seen what the veteran first does when they hand him the reigns of the team.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.