JJ Redick hired as Lakers coach on basis of ‘vibes and guesses’, claims skeptical Nick Wright

JJ Redick has agreed a four-year deal with the Lakers for the head coaching position.

JJ Redick hired as Lakers coach on basis of ‘vibes and guesses’, claims skeptical Nick Wright

Nick Wright reacted to JJ Redick as new Lakers head coach

After going through many ups and downs for their head coaching position, the Los Angeles Lakers have at last hired JJ Redick. The decision has received mixed reactions as many have praised the idea while others believe Redick was not the best fit for the job. Nick Wright happens to be falling into the latter category.

JJ Redick having no experience in the coaching department is an issue for Nick Wright. On FS1’s First Things First, the host claimed that Redick would not be a good NBA head coach. Wright doubts the Lakers’ intention of hiring Redick as he has the ‘thinnest’ resume in modern NBA history. Wright did not mince his words while questioning Redick’s credibility. 

You couldn't have a thinner coaching resume, so there's nothing to judge it on other than vibes and guess… My biggest concern with JJ, honestly, is he appears to me to be very online and very aware of criticism of himself. And I think that can be a real detriment if you're the HC of a basketball team.
Nick Wright via First Things First
YouTube video

Redick having a podcast with the Lakers’ main man has also been an issue for Wright and others. The host believes that LeBron James had a role in hiring Redick, considering their relationship behind the scenes. Also, as James’ future with the Lakers is uncertain, Wright stated that the team offered Redick the job to ‘appease’ the all-time scoring leader.

FS Video

LeBron James contacted the Lakers’ previous coaching candidate, Dan Hurley, before the decorated college coach declined the offer. The 39-year-old showed support to Hurley which reflected on the star’s own wish. Hence, Wright claimed the Lakers hired the inexperienced Redick to make James happy.

Nick Wright has not liked the idea of HC JJ Redick since the beginning

Redick’s head coach buzz started when the Charlotte Hornets offered the job to him. The news surprised many, considering his lack of experience in the field. However, Wright was not bothered by the idea that much until the Lakers became a part of the conversation.

After the organization fired Darvin Ham, Redick became one of the candidates for the job. At the time, Wright raised concerns about the idea due to the history of inexperienced coaches. The First Things First host was shocked by the news. 

That job, we were like, 'Really? Fresh out of the announcing booth—before the podcast even started—you're gonna make this guy the head coach?'
JJ Redick via First Things First

Considering Redick lacks experience, it will be interesting to see the assistant coaching staff for the Lakers. All eyes will be set on the Lakers for the next season for Redick’s debut and James’ decision about staying with the team.

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