Despite having zero coaching experience at the professional level, JJ Redick is emerging as a coaching candidate, not just for the Los Angeles Lakers but potentially for the Detroit Pistons due to his ties to Duke.
The Pistons are in the market for a new head coach following the dismissal of Monty Williams after just one season. They are committed to paying Williams a hefty sum of $65 million to step away from the coaching role.
Redick, on the other hand, is rumored to be the lead choice for the Lakers, with his relationship with LeBron James possibly giving him an advantage over James Borrego, the New Orleans Pelicans assistant, among other candidates.
And speaking of Borrego, the new Pistons General Manager Trajan Langdon has previously worked with him at the Pelicans. It’s not a stretch to think that the two share a professional rapport.
Langdon also shares a past with Redick as both were prominent figures at Duke University. This Blue Devils bond might play a role in the decision-making process. Another factor could be Redick’s visibility as a basketball analyst on ESPN, although that’s speculation.
However, one might ponder who would be willing to take on the challenge of coaching the Pistons. They set a dismal record with 28 consecutive losses under Williams, despite his respectable coaching reputation. Introducing a novice like Redick to such a role could lead to chaotic results.
Yet, considering the Pistons’ woeful 14-68 record last season, things might not get any worse. If Redick isn’t selected for the Lakers position and he’s determined to coach, his options might be limited to the Pistons, since the Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly don’t have Redick on their radar.
Such is the unpredictable nature of the NBA: Coaches are routinely dismissed, retired sharpshooters are considered for coaching, and teams like the Pistons are struggling to find their way.
