As the Lakers gear up for training camp and the upcoming campaign, General Manager Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick held a joint press conference to reflect on the offseason and look forward to the work ahead. Pelinka noted how the Lakers had an “intentional and productive” summer, which includes a surprising transaction.
Redick recently signed an extension with the Lakers just one year into his coaching tenure. He led the Purple and Gold to a 50-32 record in his inaugural season, clinching the No. 3 seed in the West before falling to the Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
Lakers Announce Key Decision on JJ Redick’s Future
Trust, Confidence Evident From Both Parties
Redick’s extension may come as a surprise considering he signed a four-year deal with the Lakers. However, according to Pelinka, the key factors behind the decision came down to “confidence and belief.”
“We think he’s a special coach with a special voice that’s really helping us to continue to define the culture of Lakers excellence,” Pelinka added. “We just wanted to make a clear statement that this is what we believe in, what we’re going to lean into, and what our players are going to mold into. … I think having long-term planning is helpful as we build this team and go forward.”
“It starts with just a high level of gratitude to the Lakers—to Mark [Walter], Jeanie [Buss] and Rob—for having that confidence in me,” Redick said. “It’s not lost on me the sort of rarity of a first-time head coach getting an extension. I recognize how fortunate I am to be with an organization that supports me that way.”
Redick Learning From NBA Colleagues and NFL Greats
In evaluating his goals heading into year two and beyond, Redick noted how he’s learned plenty from fellow coaches and even met with some NFL greats this summer. He picked the brains of Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and Sean McVay to enhance his leadership skills with the Lakers.
“It’s really just about continued growth for myself, for my staff,” Redick said. “And I feel like we all are in a good place to serve this basketball team and our players.”
Among Redick’s takeaways from their meetings was a “daily commitment” to greatness. It’s something he expects of his players even before they take the floor this season.
“We’re going to ask guys to be in championship shape, have championship communication and championship habits,” he said. “Our guys this summer have been awesome. I know LeBron is always committed to those things, Luka’s been committed. To me, that’s what it is. It’s a daily commitment.”
“[Nick] Saban has this [saying], ‘Don’t tell me, show me,’” Redick continued. “That’s what we’re asking of our players.”
The Last Word
As the Lakers embark on a full season with LeBron James and Luka Doncic—and prepare for an inevitable transition between the two superstars—keeping Redick along for the ride seemed like the right call at the perfect time. The first-time head coach has already made a strong impression on Lakers fans and executives alike. Now, it’s up to him to turn words into actions as he helps guide the Lakers back to championship form.
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