The LA Lakers moved a lot of pieces on the deck and still seem to have unfinished business. Following Darvin Ham’s dismissal, the team went on a vigorous coach hunt and zeroed in on JJ Redick after a drama. Some analysts still argue that LeBron James had a huge hand in hiring the new coach. Nevertheless, the team managed to please the superstar and almost confirmed his extension with the side. On the other hand, the Lakers may have risked it with Anthony Davis. However, James’ agent Rich Paul has the necessary aid to solve the issue.
When it was all smiles at King James’ corner after the JJ Redick hire, AD wasn’t very much pleased. ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins stated that the 9x All-Star wants to rope Rajon Rondo into the coaching staff. Moreover, Perkins also addressed an “alarming situation” where the big man could leave the fold. He added, “If JJ Redick is not thriving… I would not be surprised if he wants out of L.A.” However, Rob Pelinka expressed the team’s plans to hire experienced coaching staff around Redick.
While there are no signs of Rajon Rondo, the LA side can keep Anthony Davis in check for the time being. Only if Rich Paul comes to aid. According to Chris Haynes, an NBA insider, Paul has brought the Dallas Mavericks‘ assistant coach Jared Dudley under his wing at Klutch Sports. Redick has already gained James’ trust, and if only Rich Paul steps up, the 40-year-old could again AD’s trust.
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Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jared Dudley is signing with @KlutchSports for representation as he continues climbing the coaching ranks, sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 29, 2024
A few days ago, Marc Stein, a trusted NBA insider, stated that the Lakers are looking to pouch Jared Dudley from the Mavs’ coaching unit. But Stein himself confirmed that the Mavs showed “intent” to keep him in the circle. Importantly, the Purple & Gold side has to work its magic before it’s too late. Just like LeBron James, Anthony Davis is also equally important. So, Rich Paul needs to find a way to hire Jared Dudley.
Is Anthony Davis upset with the Lakers’ management?
Over the last few days, plenty of reports created a sense of urgency in the Lakers nation. Most of them surrounded Davis and hinted at a possible trade-out. Apart from Kendrick Perkins’ take, The Athletic’s Sam Amick also dropped a hammer. He argued that James and AD don’t completely align with JJ Redick’s plan for the Lakers.
Considering Redick’s plan to lay a foundation and focus on player development, Amick declared that the superstar duo isn’t pleased. He argued that they would rather win a championship ring immediately. He also highlighted how the duo could go to different franchises if didn’t work out the way they expected.
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While multiple reports suggest that AD is unsettled, the latest update from the LA side squashed all accusations. Ahead of Bronny James’ draft in the second round, Davis expressed his take on the 18-year-old. According to Dave McMenamin, AD said, “He’s very good defensively…He can read the floor very well. I think he’s a really good playmaker.” He further said, “He wants to create his own path… Who knows, he might come in and be ready to play for us.” AD definitely seemed excited about the Lakers’ new talent.
Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.
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