The Los Angeles Lakers have officially introduced their new head coach J.J. Redick. His lack of coaching experience came up – and his plans with his podcast
J.J. Redick brings 15 years of NBA experience to his new job as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers – but 15 years as a player, he’s never been a main man on the sidelines. “I’ve never coached in the NBA. I don’t know if you’ve heard that before,” joked the new Lakers coach at his introduction on Monday, fully aware that his CV had previously been the subject of heated debate among fans and experts.
His first day in his new job with the traditional franchise coincided exactly with his 40th birthday, having ended his active career just three years ago. After his career as a shooting guard for the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks, Redick entered the media business, created his own podcast and worked as a TV pundit for ESPN. According to media reports, he will receive a four-year contract with the Lakers.
The lack of coaching experience can also be an advantage, according to General Manager Rob Pelinka. Pelinka is certain that Redick can implement innovative ideas both on the sidelines and in the Lakers organization in general. And: His experience as a player is also of great value.
Redick: Good relationship with superstar LeBron James
“In addition to his basketball savvy, J.J. has a feel for people and real empathy that is critical to connecting with players today. This is an exciting time for Lakers basketball,” Pelinka continued. Los Angeles parted ways with Head Coach Darvin Ham in early May after being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.
Redick also has a good relationship with Lakers superstar LeBron James, and the two recently ran a podcast together. But Mind the Game is to come to an end. “I’m out of the content business for now – hopefully for a very long time,” said Redick. He has big goals for himself: “I want to be a great NBA coach and win championships.”
The Lakers were joint record champions with Boston until recently, but the Celtics overtook L.A. with their 18th title this year.
