JJ Redick has had a long career as a head coach.
At least, that’s according to him.
in December 2022, Interview with Taylor Rooks of Bleacher ReportThe Lakers’ new head coach touched on why he can excel as a basketball coach at the highest level, previewing an eventual return to an NBA locker room.
“I feel like I know the game pretty well because of the coaches I played for, especially Coach K. [ex-Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski]”He taught me about adaptability, and our sport, the NBA, changes so quickly every year, it’s important to be open to change,” Redick said.
But that’s not the only reason Redick believes he can be a leader on the sideline.
“One of my best skills as a person is the ability to communicate in an open and transparent way. I’ve done that as a teammate. I think that’s part of coaching, not shying away from things or avoiding confrontation. Locker rooms, team chemistry, that’s very fragile. You see that all the time in the NBA.”
If we take Redick’s words from a year and a half ago as true, his long-term employment with the Lakers would be a dream come true.
“I see coaching as a way to help,” Redick said in an interview. “So many people have helped me in my career, not just head coaches but assistant coaches, player development people, they hold such a big place in my heart and in my life, and I hope one day I can be one of those people.”
Redick retired in 2021 after 15 seasons in the NBA.
He recently served as a commentator for ESPN during the NBA Finals alongside Mike Breen and Doris Burke.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka reportedly offered Redick the job, citing his “ability to connect with players and his basketball IQ.”
