'That's not a combination you see often' - NBA insider Brian Windhorst finds JJ Redick great fit for LA Lakers

NBA insider Brian Windhorst has voiced optimism about JJ Redick's reported appointment as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Brian highlighted his unique qualifications and potential impact on the team. Notably, according to various media reports Redick recently agreed to a four-year contract to replace Darvin Ham following the Lakers' early playoff exit. 

Redick brings a blend of basketball intellect and modern analytical approach that Windhorst believes will resonate well in the Lakers' locker room. In an interview with Scott Van Pelt on SportsCenter, Windhorst emphasized Redick's exceptional work ethic, high intellect, and understanding of the modern game. He said, "What you see with JJ is an incredibly high work ethic and an incredibly high intellect.”

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“A feel for the modern version of the game. This is a guy who is a former player and embraces analytics and a new style. That's not a combination you see often. I think the most important thing he could bring is he has LeBron James' respect walking in the door," Windhorst further added.

Despite Redick's lack of prior coaching experience at the professional level, aside from coaching his son's youth basketball team, Windhorst pointed out that his tenure as a studio and game analyst for ESPN over the past three seasons showcased his deep understanding of the game's nuances.

Will Redick get the benefits of a connection with LeBron James?

Redick's podcasts, including "The Old Man and the Three" and "Mind the Game," further demonstrated his analytical prowess and strategic insight, fostering a connection with players like LeBron James. Windhorst tempered expectations by drawing a comparison between Redick and legendary coach Red Auerbach's early coaching challenges with the Boston Celtics.

"When you hire a first-time head coach, I don't care if you finish first or last, you're admitting that you're going to have to live with mistakes. JJ Redick will probably make mistakes that will cost the Lakers games, Red Auerbach made mistakes that cost Celtics games in his first year. I didn't see it, but I guarantee it," Windhorst explained.

Notably, JJ Redick retired from a successful 15-year NBA career that included notable stints with the Orlando Magic, LA Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, Milwaukee Bucks, and Dallas Mavericks.

As a player, he averaged 12.5 points per game and maintained an impressive 42% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. Now tasked with leading one of the NBA's most storied franchises, Redick faces the challenge of translating his on-court experience and off-court analysis into effective coaching strategies for the Lakers.