A well-known basketball commentator has suggested that LeBron James played a key role in selecting the Los Angeles Lakers’ next head coach.
Despite not holding an executive role, James’ influence within the team and the broader basketball community has come into focus. Skip Bayless, the commentator, asserts that James facilitated the consideration of JJ Redick for the coaching position.
After being ousted early from the NBA Playoffs by the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers are reportedly finalizing Redick as their choice following the dismissal of Darvin Ham. Bayless critically remarked on his show, “Undisputed,” that “there’s no way JJ is even a candidate for this job if LeBron didn’t bless him to start with.”
Bayless further expressed scepticism about Redick’s suitability. He retired from professional basketball in 2021 and has since been a sports commentator and podcast co-host with James. He highlighted Redick’s minimal coaching experience but noted his deep knowledge of basketball, which he regularly showcases in his media roles.
The choice of Redick is intriguing, given the Lakers’ struggle to capitalize on the talents of Anthony Davis and James since their last championship win in 2020. With James’ player option pending for the 2024/25 season, there is speculation that his approval of Redick might be influenced by a desire to shape the team’s future to his advantage.
This commentary paints a complex picture of internal dynamics and decision-making within one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.
