Will the Lakers just hire JJ Redick already?

JJ Redick has consistently been linked with the vacant Los Angeles Lakers head-coaching position. The Lakers publicly missed out on UConn HC Dan Hurley, Mike Budenholzer joined the Phoenix Suns and James Borrego is expected to take over the Cleveland Cavaliers role. As such, Redick is likely seen as the best coach available. 

Redick has no coaching experience at the NBA level. He has never been an assistant. Other coaches should likely be viewed as better options. Sam Cassell of the Boston Celtics is one example of an experienced former player who has earned his stripes as an assistant coach. Nevertheless, Redick looks set to leapfrog him into a primary position.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein's latest newsletter, one source close to the Lakers believes Redick could be the 'only top-tier candidate' left on Los Angeles' radar. 

"As another source noted Saturday: James Borrego's apparent lead in the Cleveland search," Stein wrote, "could end up leaving Redick as the only top-tier candidate left on the Lakers' list that they have a clear shot at."

The flirtation between Redick and Los Angeles must come to an end. If Rob Pelinka is set on hiring the former sharpshooter, he should begin contract negotiations. Redick has made it clear he wishes to coach in the NBA. The Lakers job would potentially be too good of an opportunity to turn down. 

At this point, no more meetings or discussions will change the franchise's direction. Redick is their leading candidate. He is interested in the job. The longer Los Angeles waits to secure the deal, the more it sends the message that it is unsure if Redick is the right man for the job. 

It's time Pelinka makes his decision. Either Redick will be the next head coach of the Lakers or he won't. Either way, this coaching search has dragged on far too long. The sooner the front office can put it to bed, the better.