Lakers finally choose JJ Redick to be their next head coach

A failed pursuit of UConn's Dan Hurley left the Lakers looking foolish. Nevertheless, they stuck to their principles and diligently searched for a new leader. Redick spent Saturday with the Lakers front office, and it would appear he left a lasting impression. 

By hiring Redick, the Lakers are taking a calculated risk. While he has no coaching experience at the professional level, he is viewed highly within basketball circles due to his basketball IQ. Redick thinks the game. He also has a strong relationship with LeBron James. As such, he should have no problem connecting with the rest of the Lakers locker room. 

Still, Pelinka and the front office must give Redick time to develop in his new role. It would be unfair to expect him to hit the ground running. There will likely be a period during the season where Redick must figure things out. The bright lights of Los Angeles will only make his job tougher. Redick knew that when he accepted the job, though. 

At least now, the Lakers can move past their coaching search and begin planning for the upcoming season. Redick will undoubtedly begin constructing his coaching staff in the coming days. He will also have ideas about which areas of the roster need strengthening. Fortunately for Redick, he's likely had long conversations with James about improving the team. 

Redick is betting on himself. The Lakers are betting on him, too. Still, after weeks of flirtation, this announcement felt inevitable. Now, we will finally find out how good of a coach Redick can become. Or whether he was better suited to media and podcasting.