JJ Redick, amidst rising speculation about his potential as the next head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, has chosen to stay focused on his immediate responsibilities as an ESPN NBA analyst. Despite the buzz, Redick deftly navigated questions about his connection to the Lakers’ coaching vacancy during an appearance on DraftKings’ “GoJo and Golic” show, emphasizing his current role commentating on the NBA Finals.
“I would say this: My focus right now is on calling the NBA Finals,” Redick stated, broadcasting from a Boston hotel as he prepared for Game 1 between the Celtics and Mavericks. He emphasized the breadth of his current commitments, from broadcasting to managing multiple podcasts and partnerships.
“My day-to-day right now is consumed with calling games, the 19 different podcasts I feel like I have, and my obligations to all of our partners. My focus is on the NBA Finals.”
The Lakers coaching saga continues to draw attention following a report by The Athletic’s Shams Charania that Los Angeles is “zeroing in” on Redick, a move that has intrigued many given his lack of formal coaching experience but well-known analytical acumen regarding basketball. Despite this, Redick remains focused on the postseason: “In terms of Shams, that will be addressed once the season is over. I’ll just say that.”
JJ Redick’s Coaching Prospects Questioned
Though JJ Redick‘s post-playing career has been heavily media-oriented, his potential shift into coaching has not been without skepticism. Udonis Haslem, an ex-NBA player, expressed concerns about how Redick’s media engagements might be perceived in a professional coaching environment.
“You’re gonna have guys that are gonna say, ‘Is Coach going to do a podcast after the game with LeBron?’ You’re gonna have a cynical locker room with guys that are gonna side-eye everything that JJ says,” Haslem commented in May, highlighting the unique challenges Redick might face if he were to accept a coaching position.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Coaching Search Continues
The Lakers’ search for a new head coach has been expansive, with several notable assistants interviewed, including Celtics assistant Sam Cassell, Heat assistant Chris Quinn, Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, and Nuggets assistant David Adelman. This comprehensive approach indicates the Lakers’ commitment to a thorough and calculated selection process, possibly heralding a new era for the team.
As the Lakers continue to deliberate, the basketball world watches eagerly. Whether Redick transitions from the commentary booth to the sidelines remains to be seen, but for now, his eyes, like those of the fans, are on the thrilling climax of the NBA season.
Source: NY POST
