JJ Redick’s extension at Lakers

In June 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers made a bold and unconventional move by hiring JJ Redick as their new head coach. Redick, a former NBA player and popular basketball analyst, signed a four-year contract worth approximately $32 million, averaging $8 million per year.

This decision marked a significant shift in direction for the Lakers, who traditionally favor experienced coaches for one of the league’s most storied franchises. The Lakers’ coaching search initially centered around UConn head coach Dan Hurley.

They reportedly offered Hurley a six-year, $70 million contract in hopes of luring the back-to-back NCAA champion to the NBA. However, Hurley turned down the offer and opted to remain at UConn, prompting the Lakers to pursue other candidates. JJ Redick quickly emerged as a serious contender despite having no formal coaching experience.

Redick’s hire surprised many in the basketball world. While he has never coached at the collegiate or professional level, he brings a deep understanding of the game, a high basketball IQ, and strong communication skills. Redick played 15 seasons in the NBA for several teams including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers.

Known for his sharpshooting and attention to detail, he was widely respected by teammates and coaches alike throughout his playing career. Since retiring in 2021, Redick has built a strong reputation as a media personality. He co-hosted the popular basketball podcast “The Old Man and the Three,” and also collaborated with LeBron James on ESPN’s basketball-themed show “Mind the Game.” These projects showcased his deep analytical mind and modern approach to the game, traits that likely appealed to Lakers management.

Redick’s four-year, $32 million contract places him in a competitive salary range for NBA coaches. While not as high as the offer extended to Hurley, the deal reflects the Lakers’ belief in Redick’s long-term potential. It also signals a broader trend in the NBA: front offices are becoming more willing to take chances on former players and fresh minds who understand the modern evolution of basketball, even if they lack traditional coaching resumes.

Redick has made it clear that he understands the magnitude of the opportunity and the expectations that come with it. In early interviews, he emphasized his desire to foster player development and implement a modern, adaptable system that suits the current roster. Young players like Austin Reaves, Max Christie, and Rui Hachimura are expected to play key roles, while veterans such as Anthony Davis and LeBron James remain the cornerstone of the franchise—at least for now.

Redick’s relationship with LeBron James is also a significant subplot. The two have worked closely through media projects, and their on-court philosophies appear to align. Whether this relationship translates into coaching success will be closely watched. Redick’s ability to earn the trust of the locker room, manage egos, and navigate the high-pressure Los Angeles media landscape will be put to the test immediately. The Lakers are coming off a season that ended in disappointment, with a first-round playoff exit.

Redick inherits a team that is talented but inconsistent, and he will be expected to contend from day one. With LeBron James potentially in the final years of his career, the window for championship contention remains narrow. JJ Redick’s hiring represents a fresh start and a calculated risk for the Lakers.

While the path ahead won’t be easy, his intelligence, communication skills, and modern basketball mindset may offer the franchise a new identity. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but the Lakers clearly believe Redick is the right man to lead them into their next chapter.