Despite his relationship with LeBron James, JJ Redick revealed that he did not talk to the him prior to taking the job as Lakers head coach.
JJ Redick was not named head coach of the Lakers because of his relationship with LeBron James. It likely didn’t hurt that the two hosted a podcast together and have a friendship, but Redick was hired for his other qualifications…and he doesn’t particularly care if people are concerned about it.
At his introductory presser on Monday, Redick was asked about his friendship with LeBron and what advice he received from him during the process. Redick, though, revealed that the two did not have a conversation prior to him being offered the job.
This goes in line with the reporting throughout the coaching search that LeBron was not involved, which vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka confirmed on Monday as well. In general, it seems like LeBron has taken a step back in having a hand in decisions within the franchise, whether it’s trades, roster moves or coaches.
The counter to that, though, is that Anthony Davis has become more involved. Redick also confirmed a report that he spoke with AD on the phone after his interview with the Lakers as well and prior to being offered the job.
Realistically, this is another sign of the changing of the guard in Los Angeles. LeBron will always have some cache, but he’s taking a backseat and AD is stepping forward into that void.
In this specific scenario as well, neither LeBron nor Redick likely wanted this to turn into a situation where nepotism led to this hiring. It would have tied the two of them together, whether in success or failure, and that benefits nobody. It’s better to avoid the conflict of interest that could have come about.
To be frank as well, this is a big risk for the Lakers and LeBron likely didn’t want to associate himself with that risk either.
Whatever the rationale, whatever the reasoning, everything indicates that LeBron and JJ kept work and podcasting separate, as so many podcasters worldwide strive to do in 2024.
