The Los Angeles Lakers have commenced the search for their next head coach, as revealed by league sources not authorized to speak publicly. Over the past few days, the Lakers have held formal interviews with several candidates, including JJ Redick, James Borrego, and Sam Cassell. They also have plans to meet with David Adelman, Micah Nori, and Chris Quinn in the coming days as part of their thorough evaluation process.

Among the candidates, JJ Redick, a former player and media analyst, has gained considerable attention throughout the league. The Lakers are reportedly intrigued by Redick's potential and envision him as a coaching prospect akin to Pat Riley, someone who can make an immediate impact and lead the team for years to come.

It is worth noting that Redick and Lakers star LeBron James co-host the podcast Mind The Game. However, James has made it clear that he is not involved in the team's coaching search. According to sources, this decision is solely in the hands of the organization, and James has not had any discussions about Redick's candidacy.

Speculation has arisen that the Lakers might consider hiring Redick to appease James due to their relationship. However, Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports and James' representative, refuted these claims, stating that James does not have a preference for Redick as head coach.

As the Lakers continue their search for a new coach, James holds a player option for the 2024-25 season, with a deadline of June 29th. Sources suggest that James is considering both the opt-in and opt-out routes and is expected to play for up to two more seasons. The organization views the next coach as someone who will primarily benefit Anthony Davis, who is 31 years old, rather than James, who will turn 40 in December.

During the selection process, legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski has become a respected unofficial advisor for the Lakers. With deep knowledge about candidates like Redick, Krzyzewski offers insights into the culture and desired characteristics for both the organization's next head coach and the potential coaching staff.

According to league and team sources, Anthony Davis has developed a positive rapport with James Borrego, whom he briefly worked with during his rookie season in New Orleans. This connection could potentially factor into the Lakers' decision-making process.

The Lakers are taking a deliberate approach to their search and are seeking a coach who can effectively lead the locker room, hold players accountable, and meticulously strategize and organize game plans.

The team is in need of a new coach following the dismissal of Darvin Ham earlier this month. Under Ham's leadership, the Lakers had a regular-season record of 90-74 and a postseason record of 9-12. The team finished this season with a 47-35 record but fell to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs.