It doesn’t sound like JJ Redick was the first choice of Lakers owner Jeanie Buss.
The Athletic reported on Thursday that Buss was “genuinely disappointed” after learning that UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley wouldn’t be at the helm next season.
“This much is clear, though: When it came to the Lakers’ ultimate decision-maker, Jeanie Buss, team sources said she was highly motivated to make Hurley their next coach and was genuinely disappointed when the attempt fell short,” The Athletic reported Thursday.
The Lakers instead settled for Redick, ending a search that began after they fired their previous coach, Darvin Ham, in May.
Redick had been rumored to be the lead candidate before a bombshell report revealed that Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka secretly had their eyes on Hurley.
On June 7, Hurley and his wife, Andrea, visited the Lakers facility, with Hurley meeting with Buss and Pelinka. The two Lakers’ higher-ups remained taciturn about the entire situation.
Despite walking away with a six-year, $70 million contract, Hurley announced he would stay with the Huskies three days later.
The Lakers’ ensemble quickly zeroed in on Redick the following day.
Redick had previously discussed the opening with Lakers brass prior to Hurley being offered the job, and had a follow-up interview on June 15.
Sources came away impressed with Redick’s philosophies, schemes and antics, per The Athletic.
One of his ideas centered on using Anthony Davis more in late-game situations to alleviate the on-ball responsibilities of James, who will be 40 in December.
The Lakers offered Redick a four-year contract and he accepted Thursday, leaving his ESPN analyst job to guide the storied franchise.
Regardless of Buss’ utter disappointment, the Lakers are no longer rudderless.
Despite being a first-time coach, Redick’s transition to the coaching front should be made easier given his vast experience.
Redick is bringing a keen eye for the game following 15 years in the league, which he displayed in his podcast he co-hosts with James.
The podcast delves into the X’s and O’s of basketball, as well as his broadcasting experience.
The Lakers are confident the 39-year-old could blaze the trail of a thriving culture over the next decade.
