JJ Redick to the Lakers: Stephen A. Smith explains LeBron James ‘behind the scenes’ role
The TV personality has a theory regarding the identity of the potential new Lakers coach
The Los Angeles Lakers are searching for a new head coach to replace Darvin Ham and Stephen A. Smith has predicted LeBron James is working behind the scenes to get his favored choice installed.
The popular ESPN analyst, 56, shared his thoughts on the Lakers’ search, during which he suggested James, 39, is looking to bring in one of his favored candidates for the job
Four-time NBA champion James has hosted a podcast called ‘Mind the Game Pod’ with former pro player JJ Redick, during which the two discuss basketball strategy, intellect and similar topics.
But in Smith’s view, the podcast has offered a glimpse into the future in terms of where the Lakers could be looking for their next coach, as he explained James’ role in the process.
“What are we supposed to believe when you know good and damn well that Darvin Ham is on a hotseat, and you start a podcast with JJ Redick?” Smith said on FirstTake on Friday. “You’re talking strategy and all these different things… and then lo and behold, JJ Redick is the leading candidate for the Lakers job.
“We all know he wants to be a coach and I hope he gets it. But here’s the thing with LeBron: if it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, bro it ain’t a damn moongoose!
“He knows what the hell he’s doing. Stop the BS! The man is not going to publicize it, but behind the scenes, he’s working it!”
Will the Lakers hire JJ Redick?
According to The Athletic via the New York Times, the Lakers have already met with Redick and two other candidates over the vacant coaching position.
It is believed the Lakers have held formal meetings with Redick, New Orleans Pelicans associate head coach James Borrego and Boston Celtics assistant coach Sam Cassell over the past several days, according to those sources.
Team officials are also planning to meet with Denver Nuggets assistant coach David Adelman, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori and Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn as they do their due diligence on the candidate pool.
But most of the buzz within the NBA suggests Redick could be their man, which may be enough to please James after run-ins with his previous coach Ham.
