For the second time in a row, after Darvin Ham in 2022, the Lakers have decided to appoint a coach without bench experience. JJ Redick, like his predecessor at the time, has no coaching experience. However, Darvin Ham had many seasons as an assistant coach, in Atlanta and Milwaukee in particular. This is not the case for the former Orlando player.
It is therefore a strong choice, but a considered and assumed choice, explains Jeanie Buss. “We wanted to think differently and he has a real vision”, affirms the owner of the Lakers. “I'm not comfortable talking about the technical aspects of basketball, but we were looking for a candidate who would bring us something different. And who would especially invest in the development of young players. JJ Redick is the right person for us.”
Jeanie Buss remains cautious, however, adding that she does not want “to create hype and say that it will be a great success”. The owner wants “give time” to his new coach to install his ideas.
To surround him and ensure he has some experience at his side, in order to enter the deep end as best as possible, the franchise has signed two references: Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks.
“I am very impressed with his staff. At the moment, the players are not obliged to come to training, but they come,” she explains. “With Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks, there's experience for him to fit into that coaching role. He was a player for 15 years in the league, so he's got a lot of experience. He knows how it works and I think he'll be a great leader.”
