Former NBA Player JJ Redick to Become Head Coach of Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have reached an agreement with former NBA player JJ Redick to take on the role of head coach, sources disclosed on Thursday. Redick, who enjoyed a 15-year career in the league and currently serves as an NBA analyst for ESPN, emerged as the leading candidate for the coaching position. The decision was finalized following meetings between Redick, Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka, and team owner Jeanie Buss over the past week.

Pelinka officially extended the coaching offer to Redick on Thursday morning. The Lakers’ management is impressed by Redick’s ability to connect with players, his high basketball IQ, and his potential to lead the team. There is a belief that surrounding Redick with a talented coaching staff will aid in his transition into coaching, given that this will be his first coaching role.

Redick’s candidacy gained prominence after the Lakers’ pursuit of Dan Hurley, the current coach of the [original NBA team name redacted], hit a dead end. The Lakers had reportedly offered Hurley a lucrative six-year, $70 million contract earlier in the week, but negotiations did not materialize. Pelinka’s preference for a coach who prioritizes player development and a creative on-court approach aligned with Redick’s coaching philosophy.

Los Angeles is keen on fostering the growth of their young talents, including stars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Russell Westbrook, Talen Horton-Tucker, and Jalen Green. Redick’s solid relationship with LeBron James, with whom he co-hosts a popular basketball podcast, was also a significant factor in the decision to appoint him as head coach.