Magic Johnson, a legendary player for the Los Angeles Lakers, recently expressed his optimism about the team’s decision to hire JJ Redick as the new head coach. Johnson, who had previously served as the president of basketball operations for the Lakers, knows the importance of making key decisions for the team.
In a post on social media, Johnson mentioned that he is cautiously optimistic about Redick’s appointment. He praised Redick for his 15-year career in the NBA, highlighting his exceptional 3-point shooting, high basketball IQ, passion for the game, and mental and physical toughness. Johnson believes that if Redick can bring the same level of professionalism and skill to his coaching role, it could be a successful move for both the Lakers and Redick.
However, Johnson also emphasized that hiring Redick is just the first step for the Lakers. He pointed out that the team’s general manager, Rob Pelinka, must focus on improving the roster in order to compete with other powerhouse teams in the Western Conference, such as the Nuggets, Timberwolves, Mavericks, and Suns.
According to reports, Redick was offered a four-year contract after meeting with Pelinka and owner Jeanie Buss. Pelinka was impressed by Redick’s ability to connect with players and his strong basketball IQ, which are valuable assets during the free agency process. The Lakers are looking to make significant roster moves after a disappointing early exit from the playoffs in 2024.
One of the key decisions the Lakers will face is the future of LeBron James, who has a player option for the upcoming season. James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, has yet to make a decision about his contract. The Lakers will need to carefully consider their options regarding James and other internal free agents as they plan for the offseason.
While Johnson is hopeful about Redick’s potential as head coach, he is also keeping a close eye on the team’s upcoming roster changes. He understands the importance of building a competitive team that can challenge for the top spots in the Western Conference once again. Johnson’s experience and insights will undoubtedly be valuable as the Lakers navigate the offseason and prepare for the challenges ahead.