Lakers announce JJ Redick as new head coach

JJ Redick officially took charge as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. General manager Rob Pelinka revealed that Redick was consistently part of their “Plan A pool” of candidates. Despite the coaching search involving UConn’s Dan Hurley, Pelinka assured that they were transparent with Redick throughout the process.

OFFICIAL: JJ Redick, Head Coach, Los Angeles Lakers. pic.twitter.com/uDKV6sJIct

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) June 24, 2024

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Redick first met the Lakers’ executives in Chicago in mid-May, and he was promptly informed by Pelinka when news broke about Hurley’s candidacy. Hurley ultimately chose to stay at Connecticut, where he aims to secure a third consecutive NCAA championship for the Huskies.

Acknowledging Hurley’s decision, Redick stated, “He’s a two-time national champion. I understood,” and emphasized that coaching had been on his mind since interviewing with the Toronto Raptors last summer. He even kept a coaching journal, a suggestion from Rick Carlisle during Redick’s time with the Dallas Mavericks in 2021.

The Lakers fired Darvin Ham after two seasons, leaving Redick to address multiple significant offseason questions. Emphasizing competition and expectations, Redick said, “We want to come in every day thinking about competition. I know what the expectations are. It’s my job. It’s Rob’s job. It’s all of our jobs to deliver a championship-caliber team. That’s what I signed up for.”

Redick, who turned 40 on the day of his appointment, stressed the importance of player buy-in to achieve his vision. He has already had detailed discussions with Anthony Davis, focusing on making Davis a central figure to maximize his abilities.