It was made official Monday that former player and basketball analyst JJ Redick will become the next head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Consequently, a statement was released from the Lakers organization where Redick stated that his goal in the role is to “focus on delivering championship-caliber basketball.”
“I am incredibly humbled to join the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic and successful sports franchises in the world,” Redick said. “This opportunity for me is all about service to the players, team and organization. I want to express my utmost appreciation to Jeanie Buss, Rob Pelinka and the entire Lakers front office. My goal will focus on delivering championship-caliber basketball for Lakers fans everywhere, building on the tremendous history and legacy of the Lakers. I am excited to surround myself with a veteran, innovative staff as we work relentlessly to develop individual players and maximize the team’s potential. My family and I couldn’t be more ecstatic for this new chapter in our lives and look forward to immersing ourselves in the vibrant Los Angeles community.”
“Sitting in this seat, I know what the expectations are,” Redick said in his press conference. “Lakers fans have some of the most passionate fans around the world, and the expectation is a championship.”
Furthermore, Redick has some familiarity already with the Lakers as he has a podcast with the team's main star in LeBron James called “Mind The Game” where some could have seen that as an avenue of some sorts to express the former player's knowledge. With this in mind, it could lead to a fruitful professional relationship.
Lakers' Rob Pelinka talks about Redick's “rigorous analysis” to basketball
Ever since Darvin Ham was fired after Los Angeles lost in five games to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the franchise has been looking for a jolt in the team as they feel that Redick is the man for the job. Subsequently, Redick has not coached in the NBA before, which he even mentioned in his introductory press conference, but nevertheless will become the 29th head coach in the Lakers history.
Undoubtedly, the team's Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka expressed his excitement in his statement:
“We are thrilled to introduce JJ Redick as the next head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers,” Pelinka said. “After a thoughtful and thorough search process, I couldn’t be more proud to welcome JJ, his wife Chelsea, and their two sons to the Lakers family. JJ is a fierce competitor and has an extraordinary basketball IQ and understanding of the modern game that will energize players and excite fans.”
“His rigorous analysis will immediately unlock new opportunities for our roster while setting a foundation for player development over the long term,” Redick continued. “He brings an intense dedication to innovation, advancing the game and staying at the forefront of an ever-evolving league. Beyond his basketball acumen, JJ has a care for people and genuine empathy that are critical for connecting with players today. This is an exciting time for Lakers basketball.”
In any sense, Los Angeles is hoping Redick in his first year can impress and improve after a 47-35 record and finishing seventh in the Western Conference last season. Prior to that, the Lakers will look to the NBA Draft starting Wednesday and continuing Thursday as they have the 17th and 56th overall pick.
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