Former NBA player JJ Redick. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Lakers insider has JJ Redick 'slightly ahead' in team's search for a new HC

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/14/24

JJ Redick was a finalist for the Charlotte Hornets' head-coaching position. He is now rumored to be among the front-runners of the Los Angeles Lakers' head-coaching search alongside James Borrego and Sam Cassell.

GM Rob Pelinka will likely continue to cast a wide net as he looks to recruit the best candidate for the job.

During an update posted to Jovan Buha's YouTube channel, the Lakers insider shared his thoughts on who is currently leading the pack regarding the franchise's coaching search.

"If I had to pick the candidate most likely to get the head coaching position, I would pick Redick," Buha said. "I stand by that. I still think he is the slight favorite among the candidate pool. That could always change during the interview process...Right now, I believe Redick is slightly ahead of the field. If I was asked today...I would pick Redick again."

Redick's lack of coaching experience doesn't appear to be a concern. His reputation as a smart basketball mind appears to be enticing for teams looking to move away from the tried and tested methods of veteran locker room generals.

However, the Lakers aren't the team you cut your teeth with. There's too much pressure. Too many egos. And if things go wrong, it can leave a young coach with a mountain to climb if they wish to continue their career at the highest level.

There's still a long way to go before the Lakers select their next head coach. As Buha noted, another candidate could potentially emerge as the better choice. Nevertheless, Redick's status as a respected former player likely counts for something. He can relate to the locker room. He has LeBron James to lean on as a friend within the franchise.

Still, the Lakers should look to Steve Nash's tenure with the Brooklyn Nets as a potential warning. Like Redick, Nash had a reputation for being a smart basketball mind. He was reportedly the locker room's top choice of candidate. His time with the Nets has become a footnote that we seldom speak of. Both Redick and the Lakers deserve better.

Perhaps Redick is ready for the task of leading the storied franchise. The only way to find out is to give him the reins. Pelinka must decide if finding out is worth the risk.

One thing is becoming clear, though. Sooner or later, Redick will become an NBA head coach. The only question is whether it will be with the Lakers or another team around the league.

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