(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers made it official on Thursday and announced that JJ Redick would be the next head coach of the historic team.
The announcement of Redick’s hiring was met with a fair share of praise and criticism.
On Friday’s “Undisputed,” Rachel Nichols called the hiring a “huge gamble” that could pay off very well or could completely fall apart in less than a year.
Like many others, she mentioned that Redick has never been a coach before and has just been handed the keys to a major NBA franchise.
“It’s such a huge gamble.”@Rachel__Nichols is uncertain of the Lakers hiring JJ Redick as their 8th HC in 13 years pic.twitter.com/YIINexkCyb
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) June 21, 2024
The Lakers gave Redick a four-year deal but if history is any indication, he might not make it that long.
Since Phil Jackson, no Lakers head coach has lasted more than three seasons so Redick will work very hard to break that trend and remain on board for multiple years.
He brings a lot to the table, from his expert opinion and analysis to close relationships with multiple players, including LeBron James.
But it’s undeniable that Redick also brings uncertainty.
It typically takes new head coaches a few years before they are working to the best of their abilities.
They need time to adjust to the game and lead an NBA squad.
The Lakers don’t really have that sort of time because James is now 39 years old and the team is eager to compete for at least one more championship before he retires.
Redick definitely has his work cut out for him and has no experience to rely on.
Therefore, it’s not surprising to hear the front office will be more involved with the hiring of assistant coaches to work below Redick.
They want to give him some veteran voices who can help him transition into this new job seamlessly.
The Lakers will set Redick up for success in multiple ways but many questions remain about this hiring.
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