Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has shown he's headstrong on TV networks and podcasts. However, he’s also humble enough —not to mention wise enough —to know he’ll need help in the coming months. So, when the Lakers’ coaching staff was announced, there were several notable names -- Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks and Lindsey Harding.
Redick was precise in choosing who would aid him in coaching the Lakers this season, and the first-year coach had a certain characteristic in mind.
“I’m mostly excited just to work, just being in the gym out here in this facility with the guys and our coaching staff,” Redick said on the "Lakeshow" podcast Friday. “That’s been the best part. It’s been fascinating because you’re fitting puzzle pieces together about skillsets and personalities. I couldn’t be happier with the staff that we’ve built here. We have a blend of youth and experience. Obviously, Nate (McMillan) and Scotty (Brooks) but also Bob Beyer, who has been at the front of the bench for almost two decades in the NBA. The biggest thing for me was I wanted to make sure I had a bunch of sickos on my staff and I think I’ve accomplished that. They’re grinders.”
As a first-time head coach, Redick will learn on the fly. However, his learning curve will be less jagged with the coaches he’ll have on his staff.
Former NBA head coaches McMillan and Brooks have won 1,358 regular season and playoff games combined. They’ve played in the NBA as well, giving them ample experience. When Redick needs to pick the brain of an assistant coach, they’ll likely be the first people he reaches out to.
As Redick notes, Bob Beyer has been on the bench since 2003. He coached under Stan Van Gundy while with the Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, and New Orleans Pelicans. He coached under Steve Clifford while with the Charlotte Hornets (and Bobcats). He’s also learned from Mark Jackson and Billy Donovan. Someone with his defensive expertise will come in handy, especially as Redick is being touted for his IQ on the offensive end.
With Harding —the 2024 G League Coach of the Year —also joining in on the fun, Redick has plenty to be excited about.
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