JJ Redick Warned Against Taking Lakers Coaching Job by Former Teammate Channing Frye

Former NBA star JJ Redick, now a full-time analyst and podcaster, has been a popular candidate for future coaching roles since announcing his retirement. Recently, speculation has linked Redick to the head coaching Job of the Los Angeles Lakers, a team currently seeking a new leader after firing Darvin Ham following a first-round playoff exit. However, Channing Frye, a former teammate of LeBron James, has issued a stern warning to Redick about taking the high-pressure Lakers job as his first coaching endeavor.

Frye voiced his concerns during an appearance on NBA TV, describing the potential role as a “death sentence” for Redick. “I think it’s a death sentence. I think he’s jumping on a grenade,” Frye said. “I think JJ is a coach. I know for a fact that JJ Redick is a coach, but taking that job, I just don’t know. That’s a lot. You’re jumping in and not only coaching in the NBA when you haven’t ever done that before, but you’re also coaching Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell and  LeBron James. And how do you know time-and-score situations? Like, this is not an offense to Detroit or Charlotte or San Antonio or OKC, but this is not a ‘let’s learn your way through.'”

Frye’s comments highlight the immense pressure and scrutiny that come with coaching a team like the Lakers, particularly when it involves managing high-profile players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers’ head coaching position is one of the most spotlighted roles in the NBA, and taking it on without prior coaching experience could present significant challenges.

Redick, who spent 15 years in the NBA, has earned a reputation as a knowledgeable and insightful basketball mind, making him an intriguing coaching prospect. However, the path to becoming a successful head coach often involves years of experience as an assistant coach, a step Redick has yet to take. This contrasts with his potential predecessor, Darvin Ham, who served as an assistant coach before leading the Lakers.

The respect Redick commands among his peers and his good relationship with LeBron James, who co-hosts a podcast with him, are positive factors. However, the dynamics on the court can shift when the pressure to win is at its peak, particularly with a team like the Lakers, who are always in the championship conversation.

While the Lakers continue their search for a new coach, other candidates like Sam Cassell and James Borrego are also being considered. Both Cassell and Borrego bring substantial coaching experience to the table, which could be a safer choice for the Lakers given their current roster and expectations.

In a separate incident highlighting Redick’s candid personality, he responded to criticism from sports commentator Colin Cowherd. Cowherd had taken issue with Redick’s choice of wearing backward hats during podcasts, calling it unprofessional. Redick addressed the comments while analyzing Game 5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves-Denver Nuggets series.

“I want to apologize to you for my unprofessionalism this morning with the backward cap because I don’t know if people know this or not, but certain times when you record content, you’re not allowed to have logos,” Redick said. “So, I don’t have any hats without logos, so I’ve got to turn my cap backward.”

This exchange illustrates Redick’s straightforward approach and his willingness to engage with criticism, traits that have endeared him to many fans but also underscore the challenges he might face in transitioning to a head coaching job.

As the Lakers evaluate their options, the decision of who will lead the team next season remains crucial. Redick’s potential appointment could bring fresh perspectives, but Frye’s warnings serve as a reminder of the steep learning curve he would face.

The Lakers’ situation is emblematic of the broader challenges in the NBA, where the pressure to win can quickly derail even the most promising careers. Redick’s future in coaching, whether it starts with the Lakers or another team, will undoubtedly be a journey worth watching.