Nancy Turner
Jun 25, 2024 - 02:20

JJ Redick introduced as Los Angeles Lakers new coach for championship caliber team

JJ Redick introduced as Lakers new coach, emphasizing service, collaboration, and player development. Fans expect a championship-caliber team. Exciting times ahead!

JJ Redick was officially introduced as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday, marking a significant shift in his career from player to coach. Despite his lack of prior coaching experience, Redick expressed his commitment to teaching players and leading the team to a championship.

His coaching background was limited to his son's youth team, but Redick's motivation to serve players, the Lakers organization, and fans drove him to take on this new role. He emphasized the importance of competition, performance, collaboration, and leadership as key drivers for his coaching philosophy.

After signing a four-year contract with the Lakers, Redick's unique perspective on basketball and player development impressed Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka during their meetings. They shared a similar basketball philosophy focused on high-level strategy, effective communication, and prioritizing player development.

Acknowledging the high expectations of Lakers fans for a championship-caliber team, Redick expressed his dedication to delivering results. His transition from a 15-season NBA playing career to coaching reflects his passion for the game and desire to bring his basketball knowledge to player development.

As the seventh permanent coach for the Lakers since Phil Jackson's retirement, Redick follows a line of coaching legends. Magic Johnson cautiously expressed optimism about Redick's potential as a coach, highlighting his skills as a player and questioning whether his transition to coaching will mirror successful former NBA player-coaches like Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Ty Lue, or Doc Rivers.

Overall, Redick's appointment as head coach brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty, as the Lakers aim to build a championship-winning team under his leadership.