The Los Angeles Lakers finally announced their new head coach on Thursday: former player and analyst JJ Redick.
The hiring of Redick wasn’t that surprising considering he had been discussed as a potential coach for weeks now.
Following the announcement, fans of the team shared their opinions about Redick leading the team, including former champion Magic Johnson.
Speaking on Twitter, Johnson said he was “cautiously optimistic” about Redick being in charge in Los Angeles.
“I enjoyed watching him as a player – great 3-point shooting, high basketball IQ, passion for the game, and mental and physical toughness. If he can bring how he played professionally to the Lakers – this could work out!” Johnson said.
But he asked a question that many people have: “But will his transition from star basketball player to head coach end up like Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Ty Lue, or Doc Rivers or the former NBA players turned coaches who weren’t successful?”
I’m cautiously optimistic that this new hire is a success for both the Lakers and JJ Reddick. I enjoyed watching him as a player – great 3-point shooting, high basketball IQ, passion for the game, and mental and physical toughness. If he can bring how he played professionally to…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) June 20, 2024
As Johnson mentioned, Redick isn’t the first person to make the move from former player to coach.
But how will it turn out for Redick?
Inside reports state that the Lakers envision Redick as their own version of Erik Spoelstra, someone who can build a culture within the team and lead the franchise for many years.
He certainly has shown he has a high basketball IQ and a deep understanding of the game, but will that translate to a lot of wins for the Lakers?
Redick has been given multiple major tasks with this hiring.
Not only is he required to help them win as much as they can as soon as possible with LeBron James, but he also has to lay a foundation for the future of the team after James retires.
Like Johnson, all Lakers fans are currently optimistic but also cautious about Redick’s chances.
NEXT:
Carmelo Anthony Reveals Wild Story About Kobe Bryant, JJ Redick
