In the past few months, JJ Redick has been linked with vacant head-coaching jobs. He was among the finalists for the Charlotte Hornets’ job before they opted to go with Charles Lee. He’s also been cited among the front-runners for the Los Angeles Lakers role following Darvin Ham’s dismissal.
However, UConn’s Dan Hurley appears to be the most likely candidate to take over the Lakers. Still, Redick’s former teammate and current New York Knicks wing Josh Hart believes it’s only a matter of time before the 15-year NBA veteran lands his first head-coaching gig.
“He would be an amazing X’s and O’s coach,” Hart said on “The Roommates” podcast. “Obviously, a players coach. Put guys in the right position to be successful. So he will for sure be a coach in the next couple of years…If he does not get a job this summer, or even next summer, or even the summer following. He will for sure have a head coaching job. I think he will be a very good coach.”
Hart was Redick’s teammate during their tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans. The Knicks fan favorite has seen Redick’s basketball knowledge firsthand. Redick has impressed since moving into the media following his retirement. His “Mind the Game” podcast with LeBron James is a strong example of his basketball IQ.
If Redick misses out on the Lakers job, it could be a blessing in disguise. He needs to land with a small market team that’s embarking on a rebuild. Redick has no coaching experience. Being allowed to develop and implement a system away from the spotlight would be perfect for him. The bright lights of Los Angeles are not where rookie coaches should cut their teeth.
Redick must show patience. Eventually, a coaching opportunity will open up for him. Until then, he should focus on creating insightful content and using that as a platform to remain firmly in the minds of front offices around the league. Sooner or later, we will see him on the sidelines. It’s just unlikely to be with the Lakers.