Strongly Against JJ Redick Hire, Ex-Lakers Coach Slightly Eases After Nate Macmillan and Scott Brooks Recruitment

Former Lakers coach Byron Scott had several concerns regarding the team’s newest head coach, JJ Redick. It was primarily due to Redick’s lack of coaching experience. From leadership to tactical skills, Scott shared his advice for Redick during the latest segment of his podcast. However, it now seems Scott has had a change of heart. 

After learning about the Lakers’ new strategy, the former NBA player is excited about the direction the team is taking. As per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Redick has brought in two seasoned coaches, Scott Brooks and Nate McMillan, to bolster the team’s staff.

“The last person that was hired with no experience, it didn’t work out too well,” Brooks admits, referring to Steve Nash, who had to part ways two years in. So with a little experience by Redick’s side has the 3x NBA champion breathing a sigh of relief. “So I love what JJ did as far as the staff that he has brought in… that made me feel a whole lot better. A lot more comfortable,” Byron said to TMZ.

Redick’s lack of experience initially worried many, but with these additions, those concerns may be alleviated. Brooks comes with a rich experience in leading teams. He served as head coach of the Washington Wizards from 2016 to 2021 and previously enhanced his experience coaching the Oklahoma City Thunder for seven years.

There have been talks for months about the Lakers assembling a talented roster, with Rajon Rondo and Phil Handy being the key names mentioned. While some fans were disappointed since Rando or Handy couldn’t make it, Brooks will be joined by McMillan. The former Portland Trailblazers head coach brings a wealth of coaching experience, having been the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2020 to 2023.

Scott himself coached the Lakers from 2014 to 2016 and even won three championships during their showtime era. So a little worry was only natural of the NBA star. 

Byron Scott is concerned about JJ Redick’s relationship with the team

Redick’s podcast with Lakers star LeBron James is well-known, and he has built a strong bond with the superstar. However, Scott believed Redick would need to cultivate similar relationships with all the other players, especially Anthony Davis. “I think he already has a relationship with LeBron which is important. But he has to develop one with AD as well and the rest of the guys as well,” Scott said on his podcast. 

Scott expressed concerns that the players might not fully respect or listen to Redick as the Los Angeles Lakers head coach, given his lack of experience. He also suggested that Redick should develop a strong, assertive, and a “no-nonsense” attitude to be taken seriously by the team.

Speaking about the new coaching additions, as Scott highlighted, Brooks and McMillan, both of whom bring a wealth of coaching experience will prove vital for the new coach, helping him establish a strong rapport with the players.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.