The Los Angeles Lakers have restarted their coaching staff search, and a familiar name has emerged as a key candidate.
That name is J.J. Reddick, who is currently an analyst and broadcaster for ESPN, has 15 years of experience in the NBA and is a co-host of the new “Mind the Game” podcast with Lakers' star LeBron James. The news was reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN on the Saturday, May 11 edition of “NBA Countdown” on ABC. “Their search will intensify this week,
[GM Rob] Pelinka , the Lakers front office, will be in Chicago for the league’s draft combine. They will start seeking permission to talk to coaches around the league, assistants,”Wojnarowski reported . “But one name that the Lakers have been focusing on in their initial research is J.J. Reddick, our colleague at ESPN. He is someone the Lakers are interested in. They have been trying to learn more about him. However, this will be a comprehensive and lengthy search.”J.J. Reddick’s Accomplished NBA Career Strengthens His Case for Lakers Head Coaching Role
Former NBA player J.J. Reddick is one of the top candidates for the Los Angeles Lakers’ head coaching position early in the search to replace Darvin Ham.
GettyReddick spent 15 years in the league, with extended periods with the
Orlando Magic Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans and . He also had short stints with theMilwaukee Bucks (2012-13) and the Dallas Mavericks Reddick retired after the 2020-21 season, averaging 12.8 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game throughout his career, as reported by (2020-21).
Basketball Reference . He maintained a 41.5% 3-point shooting average on 5 attempts per game during his career.As a part-time starter (starting 488 of 940 career NBA games), Reddick averaged 25.5 minutes per game and contributed to successful teams that frequently made the playoffs. Reddick was a part of the 2009 Magic team that defeated James and the
Cleveland Cavaliers 4-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals and went on to the NBA Finals against the Lakers, where Los Angeles won in five games, which was the closest Reddick came to a title. Charlotte Hornets Gave Serious Thought to J.J. Reddick for Head Coaching Position This Cycle
Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka.
Getty Reddick’s professional and seemingly personal connection with James should work in his favor during L.A.’s search. His credibility as a long-standing and successful NBA player will also carry weight.
Reddick won't reach 40 years old until June, and is only around six months older than James. However, the team may see his age as more of an advantage than a disadvantage, as it could help him connect with younger players in the team.
Charlotte Hornets
The considered Reddick for their head coaching vacancy, inviting him for an interview, leading to Shams Charania from The Athletic reported that Reddick was a “strong contender” for the position. for the position. Charlotte ultimately hired Charles Lee
, who is currently an assistant coach for theBoston Celtics. The Hornets’ interest in Reddick could improve his chances for other positions, such as with the Lakers. The Los Angeles Lakers have once again made changes to their coaching staff, and as they begin the search for a new head coach, a familiar name has emerged as a top contender.
