Magic Johnson compares JJ Redick potential as Lakers head coach to reach likes of Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Ty Lue and Doc Rivers

JJ Redick has never coached above the youth level, but the Lakers are betting on his ability to connect with players.

Magic Johnson compares JJ Redick potential as Lakers head coach to reach likes of Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Ty Lue and Doc Rivers

Magic Johnson has faith in JJ Redick

The LA Lakers have named JJ Redick as their new head coach despite his lack of coaching experience. However, Lakers legend Magic Johnson is ‘cautiously optimistic’ about Redick’s potential as a coach. Johnson praised Redick’s playing career and basketball IQ, expressing hope that he can bring his professional approach to the sidelines.

Magic Johnson acknowledged that JJ Redick faces a learning curve as a first-time coach but pointed to successful examples of former players-turned-coaches, such as Steve Kerr, Jason Kidd, Ty Lue, and Doc Rivers. He wondered if Redick’s transition would follow in their footsteps or struggle like some other former players who became coaches.

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?
Magic Johnson wrote on X

Redick has never coached above the youth level, but the Lakers are betting on his ability to connect with players and his high basketball IQ to translate to the sidelines. Magic Johnson’s endorsement carries significant weight, given his status as a Lakers legend and five-time NBA champion.

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Magic Johnson backs JJ Redick as Lakers Coach, but stresses need for roster improvement 

Magic Johnson shared his thoughts on the team’s recent hiring of JJ Redick as head coach and the areas the team will have to improve upon. While Johnson supports the decision, he emphasized that improving the roster is crucial for the team’s success. He believes that general manager Rob Pelinka’s next move is critical in building a competitive team that can contend with powerhouse teams in the Western Conference.

Naming a head coach was just the first step. Even bigger than naming JJ Redick as the Head Coach, [general manager] Rob Pelinka's next step must be to improve the roster if we are going to compete against all the powerhouse teams in the West like the Nuggets, Timberwolves, Mavericks, Suns.
Magic Johnson wrote on X

While some question JJ Redick’s lack of experience, others see potential in his playing background and intellectual approach to the game. As Redick begins his coaching journey, he’ll aim to prove himself as a successful coach and justify the Lakers’ faith in him.

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