The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly close to making a pivotal decision regarding their next head coach, with former NBA sharpshooter J.J. Redick emerging as the leading candidate.
This comes after several other coaching prospects have been snapped up by other teams. UConn’s Dan Hurley, who was a target, chose to stay at the college level, while Mike Budenholzer accepted a position with the Phoenix Suns, and James Borrego is expected to head to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Despite having no prior coaching experience at the NBA level, Redick’s candidacy has gained traction within the Lakers’ front office.
His potential appointment has stirred debate, particularly when compared to other seasoned candidates like Sam Cassell, who boasts substantial experience as an assistant coach with the Boston Celtics. Nonetheless, Redick’s charisma and understanding of the modern NBA game appear to make him a compelling option.
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According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Redick might be the Lakers’ most viable remaining choice. In his latest newsletter, Stein highlighted that with Borrego seemingly set for Cleveland, Redick could be the only top-tier candidate left in the Lakers’ sights. A source close to the situation indicated that this could be the Lakers’ best shot at securing a promising coach for their team.
The uncertainty around the decision has sparked frustration among fans and analysts alike. If Lakers’ General Manager Rob Pelinka is indeed set on Redick, many believe it’s time to formalize the offer and begin contract negotiations. Redick himself has expressed a strong desire to transition into coaching, and the Lakers’ opportunity is one that could be too significant for him to pass up.
The Lakers’ prolonged search for a head coach has led to growing impatience. Further delays in the decision-making process could suggest doubts about Redick’s fit, potentially weakening the team’s position. It’s imperative for the Lakers to conclude this search swiftly to focus on other pressing off-season priorities.
Ultimately, the Lakers need to resolve their coaching situation without further ado. Whether J.J. Redick will be the next head coach remains to be seen, but the need for a decisive move is clear.
The longer the front office delays, the more it risks disrupting the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. It’s time for Pelinka and the Lakers to make a definitive call and put an end to this protracted saga.
