JJ Redick Begins Building Coaching Staff for the Los Angeles Lakers

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ICARO Media Group
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03/07/2024 20h29

JJ Redick, the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, is in the process of assembling his coaching staff for the upcoming season. As a rookie head coach, Redick understands the importance of finding experienced individuals who can support him in his new role.

Unlike many first-time hires, Redick does not have an obvious coaching tree or school of thought to draw from. This makes the selection process more challenging but also provides an opportunity for fresh perspectives. Redick is eager to shape his own vision for the Lakers and is focused on finding the right candidates to join his staff.

Scott Brooks and Nate McMillan have been confirmed as "top assistants" on Redick's coaching staff, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. It remains uncertain if Redick will rely on both equally or if another hire will take on the role of his right-hand person. Nonetheless, Brooks brings a wealth of experience to the team. He served as the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2012. He then spent time coaching the Washington Wizards and most recently worked as the lead assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers under Chauncey Billups.

McMillan, on the other hand, has a similar coaching background with extensive NBA experience as a player and coach. He played as a point guard for the Seattle SuperSonics and competed against the Chicago Bulls in the NBA Finals. He later became the head coach for the Seattle and Portland franchises, followed by a coaching stint with the Indiana Pacers and a brief tenure as the interim head coach for the Atlanta Hawks.

Both Brooks and McMillan bring valuable postseason and regular-season experience to the Lakers. Their presence will undoubtedly enhance Redick's coaching staff and provide additional guidance and expertise.

Currently, these are the only confirmed hires on Redick's coaching staff. Dwane Casey, who was initially considered a target, has reportedly withdrawn his name from consideration. However, sources have indicated that the Lakers have expressed interest in adding Alvin Gentry to their staff. Gentry, a seasoned coach with a long history in the NBA, has held various coaching roles since 1988, including head coach positions with the Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and New Orleans Pelicans. He most recently served as the interim head coach for the Sacramento Kings.

As Redick continues to finalize his coaching staff, the Lakers are eager to see how this new group will contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season. With experienced individuals such as Brooks and McMillan already on board, Redick's vision for the Lakers is taking shape, and fans are eagerly anticipating the team's performance on the court.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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