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The LA Lakers might just benefit from J.J. Redick leading the team from the sidelines next season. The veteran sharpshooter has played 15 seasons in the NBA and is one of the names making the rounds to coach a few teams in the upcoming season.
The former Philadelphia 76ers star has already been linked to the Charlotte Hornets and while he has yet to sign, there have been reports that more than one team is gunning for his services. While there is no mention of the Lakers at this point, there's a reason why they don't rule out the possibility.
According to reports, Ham is slated to return as the team's head coach next season as well, irrespective of how they fare this season. While it's insider news, there's every reason the development could go either way.
On that note, here is a look at why Redick could replace Darvin Ham as LA's head coach for the 2024–25 season.
3 reasons why JJ Redick could replace Darvin Ham
#3 Young, dynamic, and infuses fresh energy
At 39, J.J. Redick is young and can relate to modern-day basketball. The quintessential old-school approach can be replaced by something novel that the veteran sharpshooter brings to the table.
The Lakers will look for some young talent to add to the roster next season and for a player who doubled up as an analyst after his playing career, Redick brings a more dynamic approach to team building and coaching.
Growth is a two-way street and the likes of Joe Mazzulla, Mike Daigneault, and Will Hardy have all impressed as young coaches leading the charge in the league.
#2 Boasts of astute basketball acumen
Game awareness and IQ were J.J. Redick's biggest strengths as a player. He is regarded as one of the potential coaches who is more detail-oriented and pays attention to the intricacies of the game that make a difference.
His in-depth analysis while he's on his broadcast stints shows how he boasts of technical understanding and that is the need of the hour for the Lakers who have the potential to be title contenders.
#1 Great relationship with LeBron James
JJ Redick and LeBron James' solid relationship has been clear when they sit down and discuss basketball on their 'Mind the Game' podcast.
Their nuanced discussions might not be every NBA fan's cup of tea, but from a coaching perspective, it will help the Lakers go a long way. Incidentally, it could be one of the reasons why James may choose to play for LA next season.
If two players could go at length about how to guard a pick play over a glass of wine, there's enough to show that these two could make it work for the Purple and Gold.
