The Los Angeles Lakers’ search for Darvin Ham’s replacement has lasted over a month as the NBA Draft looms, beginning with informal conversations led by executive vice president and general manager Rob Pelinka.
According to the LA Times, the Lakers conducted their most formal interview with JJ Redick. The former NBA sharpshooter met with multiple organization members, including Pelinka and owner Jeanie Buss.
Redick remains a central figure in the Lakers’ coaching search. He initially became a favorite after contact at the NBA draft combine. The Lakers hosted New Orleans Pelicans assistant coach James Borrego and UConn head coach Dan Hurley. Despite offering Hurley a six-year, $70 million deal, he remained with the Huskies after becoming a focus of the NBA news cycle.
Other candidates included Boston Celtics assistant coach Sam Cassell, Denver Nuggets assistant coach David Adelman, and Minnesota Timberwolves assistant coach Micah Nori.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: JJ Redick, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Coaching Search Updates
The LA Times reported Redick has had multiple discussions with Pelinka since Ham’s dismissal. He was briefly linked to the Charlotte Hornets opening, but many NBA executives connected the team with Redick despite the Lakers’ claims of a broad and open search.
Redick has built a successful podcast company and co-hosts “Mind the Game” with LeBron James, focusing on basketball strategy. James, who can become an unrestricted free agent this summer, has not been directly involved in the coaching search.
Redick is currently broadcasting the NBA Finals, and it is speculated that the Lakers may wait until he finishes his duties before making a hiring decision. Recently, the Lakers conducted in-person interviews with Borrego and surprised many by revealing their interest in Hurley.
Hiring Redick would be a gamble for the Lakers, as he lacks coaching experience at any level. However, he is known for his analytical thinking and basketball intelligence, having played 15 seasons in the NBA, including a notable stint with the Clippers. Most importantly, he has a clear relationship with James.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: JJ Redick, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Coaching Search Updates
The Lakers face a crucial decision as they look to replace Ham and make pivotal roster choices ahead of the NBA Draft. The outcome of their coaching search will significantly impact the team’s direction as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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