JJ Redick Named New Head Coach of Los Angeles Lakers

Former NBA Star and ESPN Analyst to Take the Reins

Redick's Contract, Team's Expectations

Seven weeks after parting ways with Darvin Ham, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally found their new head coach in former NBA player and current ESPN analyst JJ Redick. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Redick has agreed to a four-year contract with the Lakers.

Redick, 38, played 15 seasons in the NBA, winning a championship with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2018. He retired in 2021 and joined ESPN as an NBA analyst.

The Lakers are hoping that Redick can turn around their fortunes after a disappointing 2022-23 season. The team finished 33-49, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

Redick will have his work cut out for him, as the Lakers roster is in need of a major overhaul. The team is reportedly planning to trade Russell Westbrook this summer, and they could also move on from Anthony Davis.

Despite the challenges, Redick is excited about the opportunity to coach the Lakers. "I'm thrilled to join this historic franchise," Redick said in a statement. "I'm looking forward to working with our players and staff to bring a championship back to Los Angeles."

The Lakers will open the 2023-24 season at home against the Golden State Warriors on October 18th.

Conclusion

The hiring of JJ Redick as head coach is a bold move by the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick has no prior coaching experience, but he is a highly intelligent and respected basketball mind. If he can translate his success as a player and analyst to the coaching ranks, the Lakers could be a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.