JJ Redick Takes On Daunting Role as Lakers Head Coach
JJ Redick has just accepted one of the most challenging jobs in the NBA. It's official: he is the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, having signed a four-year deal. While coaching the Lakers is a significant responsibility, the real challenge lies in coaching LeBron James.
On the difficulty scale, coaching LeBron James ranks exceptionally high. Despite LeBron's undeniable talent and the opportunities he brings alongside Anthony Davis, the responsibility comes with immense pressure and scrutiny.
The LeBron Factor
LeBron James is still an extraordinary talent, and his partnership with Anthony Davis provides a glimmer of hope for success. His high profile and basketball genius are elements that any new head coach would desire to boost the start of their career. Coaching the Lakers is a prestigious opportunity, one of only 30 such roles in the world. However, the expectation to win is immediate — if not yesterday.
High Standards and High Pressure
LeBron’s exacting standards, relentless drive, and oscillation between affection and something akin to a freeze-out make him both remarkable and perilous to coach. Eight full-time head coaches have managed teams featuring LeBron James. Only two — Erik Spoelstra and Tyronn Lue — have not been dismissed on his watch.
Five coaches were fired, and Luke Walton “mutually parted ways” with the Lakers in 2019 before taking the job with the Kings. LeBron wanted Spoelstra fired during his first year in Miami in 2010, a time when he realized that not all basketball royalty can rule by decree.
This instance highlighted Pat Riley's rare ability to tell LeBron no, showcasing the intangibles and troubles that can arise when the glamor and promise of a LeBron James team confront reality. Lue stepped in after David Blatt was fired despite having a 30-11 record in 2016. That team went on to win an NBA Championship.
Notably, while Lue and Spoelstra both won titles with LeBron, a championship does not safeguard against being dismissed. Frank Vogel coached the Lakers to a championship three years ago and was gone two seasons later.
To say coaching LeBron James is a poisoned chalice would be disingenuous. It overlooks his greatness and the nuance of leading a team featuring one of the all-time greats. However, the job doesn't guarantee longevity or professional vitality either. LeBron James can bring glory but is also extremely challenging to coach.
The Power and Pressure of LeBron
LeBron wields considerable influence within front offices and locker rooms, and he’s not hesitant to use it. His approach, similar to Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, includes traits that could be seen as flaws if not for the greatness they help produce. Stars shine incandescently but can also burn out those who cannot navigate their orbit effectively.
The current Lakers roster isn’t particularly strong. The LeBron-AD tandem alone may not be sufficient. For two consecutive years, they’ve been dominated and eliminated from the playoffs by the Denver Nuggets.
LeBron will turn 40 later this year, and the Western Conference, in which Redick will now coach, appears incredibly competitive next season — potentially with as many as 13 teams in contention. The possibility of the Lakers missing the playoffs in Redick’s first season is very real.
Evaluating Redick's Prospects
Does Redick’s podcast partnership with LeBron James provide him with immunity from the inevitable criticisms that come with coaching a struggling team led by LeBron? Does he possess the temperament — the humility and media savvy — to withstand challenging times? Will his brief television experience translate into effective coaching?
It's possible that the answers to these questions will be affirmative, and Redick could indeed rise to the occasion, navigating the intricate dynamics of a LeBron-led team. However, he will be tested under some of the most demanding circumstances in basketball: coaching LeBron James, with sky-high expectations and where failures are often laid at the coach’s feet.
Time will tell if JJ Redick can meet this challenge and make the most of this significant step in his career.
Quotes:
- "good luck"
- "mutually parted ways"
- "rules by decree"