After nearly two months since the firing of Darvin Ham, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally settled for former NBA veteran and first-time head coach JJ Redick. As hopes and expectations lay on helping LeBron James & Co. bring home the championship, the elephant in the room is currently focused elsewhere – the 17th pick and 55th pick in the upcoming draft, or should we say Bronny James? 

The fans eagerly waited the last few weeks for the Lakers to make two additions. One is hiring JJ Redick as their head coach, which is over. And another one would be to see Bronny James in the purple and gold jersey. But what does hiring Redick have to do with drafting Bronny? 

If you have the above question in your mind, here is a glimpse into Redick’s role with the Lakers for the next few seasons, explained by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The 55-year-old analyst shared, “Obviously he has got a relationship with star player LeBron James, but…they (Lakers) want to put a program in place for player development of getting these younger players better and getting in place assistant where players they draft, can move through that organization.”  

With reports revealing the possibility of the Lakers drafting Bronny in any of the two picks, it would give Redick a first-hand opportunity to develop the youngster. That is exactly what the Lakers are focused on – improving young talent. Redick’s future with the team depends on how good he is with the young core. 

Why drafting Bronny James would give Redick a golden chance?

The fans are eager to see the dad-son combo in the NBA for the first time. Although that would be historic, the Lakers might have other options in their mind as well. However, drafting Bronny can give Redick a chance to prove his worth as a coach.

The criticism of Bronny and Redick is quite high, keeping in mind that they have not starred in the league yet. Bronny’s performance in college paired with his height have been the highlight in calling out his flaws. On the other hand, considering a direct transition to HC hasn’t worked for the likes of Isiah Thomas, Derrek Fisher, even Magic Johnson for a while, Redick naturally comes under keen eyes.

If in case the Lakers draft Bronny, this would be a golden opportunity for Redick to showcase that both hold capabilities. The Lakers have been poor when it comes to rookie and player development. Jalen Hood-Schifino is an example of this. If Redick helps Bronny deliver an efficient rookie season with a winning record, that would be the worthy reply to the naysayers. Maybe join Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, and Larry Bird is setting examples. 

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