JJ Redick Goes From Coaching His Kids To Coaching The Lakers

With less than a week before the NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers finally ended months of speculation by hiring former player and ESPN analyst JJ Redick as their new head coach on a four-year contract, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Imagine going from coaching your son's youth basketball team to coaching the Los Angeles Lakers—that is exactly what Redick is about experience. Redick, 39, has clearly showcased an extensive understanding of the NBA through his work as a studio and game analyst for ESPN over the past three seasons.

His podcast work has also been excellent on his two podcasts, "The Old Man and the Three" and "Mind the Game," which he co-hosts with LeBron James.

THE UNDERRATED OPINION
From a basketball X's and O's perspective, I'm sure Redick, the first-time NBA head coach, will surround himself with a veteran staff. One of his big challenges will be getting the most out of Anthony Davis, which, from an assistant coach staff perspective, could be partially accomplished by hiring Davis's long-time friend and former teammate Rajon Rondo.

Beyond the staff, the other big question is whether Redick will be able to earn the respect of his players or if his message will eventually be ignored.