ESPN: Lakers make a last minute move to sign formal NBA player as headcoach

Following a five-game loss to the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, many wondered what the legendary Los Angeles Lakers, still led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, would do in the offseason to try to turn things around.

After two seasons and one trip to the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers made their first move—which was expected and had been known for some time. They fired head coach Darvin Ham.

When it became clear that Ham had to be replaced, the Lakers took a very controversial tack and ultimately chose to bring in ESPN analyst and former NBA player JJ Redick, who had never ever coached a basketball game.

In addition to lacking coaching expertise, Redick and James co-hosted a podcast before he was hired, which gave many people the impression that the superstar is currently in charge of the company. When the team selected his son Bronny James in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, that was then elevated to a whole other level.

Many people believe Redick won’t measure up to the high expectations placed on him in Los Angeles, but former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski knows firsthand whether or not he will succeed.

During an appearance on “The Jim Rome Show,” Krzyzewski gave his former Duke player confidence as he embarks on his first NBA coaching position.

“I am confident he will succeed,” Krzyzewski stated. Since JJ has undoubtedly been a member of my family, you converse during the procedure. I believe he will be excellent.

Since Krzyzewski went so far as to claim that he is a member of his family and won’t speak negatively about the circumstances, it is obvious that he is somewhat prejudiced in his evaluation.

It remains to be seen if Redick can succeed in his role as head coach of the 17-time NBA champions, and he will face immense pressure from the start of the upcoming campaign.