In spite of lacking any professional coaching background, JJ Redick is emerging as a coaching contender, not only for the Los Angeles Lakers but potentially for the Detroit Pistons owing to his connections to Duke.
The Pistons are on the hunt for a new head coach after the removal of Monty Williams following just one season. They are ready to shell out a substantial $65 million to release Williams from his coaching duties.
Conversely, rumors point towards Redick as the primary candidate for the Lakers, given his ties with LeBron James, which might put him above James Borrego, the assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans, and other potential candidates.
As for Borrego, the new Pistons General Manager Trajan Langdon previously collaborated with him at the Pelicans. It is reasonable to assume that they share a solid professional relationship.
Langdon also has a history with Redick, both having significant involvement at Duke University. This shared bond from their Blue Devils days could sway the decision-making process. Another element that may come into play is Redick’s exposure as a basketball analyst on ESPN, though this is just speculation.
Nonetheless, it’s worth contemplating who would accept the challenge of coaching the Pistons. With 28 consecutive losses under Williams, despite his respectable coaching reputation, steering a novice like Redick into such a position might yield tumultuous outcomes.
Nevertheless, in light of the Pistons’ dismal 14-68 record last season, the situation might not deteriorate any further. If Redick isn’t chosen for the Lakers role and is intent on pursuing coaching, his choices might narrow down to the Pistons, as reports suggest the Cleveland Cavaliers are not considering Redick.
This epitomizes the unpredictable landscape of the NBA: Coaches are frequently replaced, former sharpshooters transition into coaching roles, and teams like the Pistons grapple to find their footing.
