Coach JJ Redick Promises To Extend LeBron’s Career by 6 Years by Unlocking a New Dimension to His Game

The Los Angeles Lakers are currently looking to fill in their empty Head Coach position and JJ Redick has reportedly caught their eye. Widely appreciated for his skills on the court and overall knowledge of the game, the former NBA star has caught the attention of Lakers’ management. Recently, he was spotted giving coaching advice to none other than LeBron James.

In the latest episode of their popular podcast, ‘Mind The Game,’ JJ shared his insights on offensive strategies with LeBron. The two discussed 3-pointers and James’ contribution to his team’s offense as a player.

LeBron James’ 6-year plan

On the podcast, the two NBA champions talked about 3-pointers and offense. JJ said, “You attacking the basket is what makes an offense work,” and discussed LeBron James’ ability as a player to create windows for his teammates. He said, “You could individually say, ‘F*ck it’ I’m shooting 15 3-pointers tonight’ but is that the best way for a team to run an offense?” highlighting the importance of putting your team first. LeBron agreed with his co-host and recognized the importance of attacking the basket.

He talked about how a player can score well when the offense is opened up by “Driving into the lane and making plays.” To which Redick quipped in and playfully said, “Playing another six years just being a spot-up shooter maybe?”

Episode 7 of Mind the Game with @KingJames and @jj_redick is now live.

Watch on YouTube: https://t.co/PZEPZ7YtS3 pic.twitter.com/l5joLL4bQk

— Mind the Game (@mindthegamepod) May 8, 2024

Redick indirectly suggested that LeBron take a slightly different route this time. “I think you should just do a complete heel turn next year,” he said. Regardless, James said that he felt he did okay from the 3-point line this year, considering he’s shooting 41.6% –his career best. But Redick did not stop there, he offered to help LeBron out.

He said, “I’m gonna send you all my tapes, I’m gonna send you all my highlight videos.” JJ’s suggestion was to become an off-ball movement ‘catch and shoot’ guy, “just flying off screens, leaning, falling away.” JJ’s suggestions to LeBron were interesting in light of Head Coach rumors. If anything, they added fuel to fire. As speculations swirl around the Lakers’ coaching vacancy, Redick’s name stands out. But JJ Redick is not the only name on Los Angeles’ mind.

Lakers’ growing silence on Head Coach vacany

After letting go of Darvin Ham post playoff exit, the Lakers have been searching for a replacement. Since Phil Jackson left in 2011, no coach has stayed with them for more than three years. Many names have come up; Mike Budenholzer, Terry Stotts, Kenny Atkinson and several others. But JJ’s name has gained the most attention from fans due to his friendship with LeBron.

Mike Budenholzer has also emerged as a likely successor to Darvin. But analyst Brian Windhorst claimed that he doesn’t see it happening because of the Lakers potential budget. Budenholzer is very sought-after and demands eight figures a season and Los Angeles may not be willing to pay that much. Reportedly, Kenny Atkinson and Terry Stotts have a good shot at the position too.

Although fans have claimed that LeBron James may leverage his friendship to JJ Redick’s benefit, that might not be the case. The player has kept his distance from the hiring process in the past and will probably continue to do so. Reagrdless, JJ’s attempt at helping LeBron out and giving him advice may encourage the speculations. With Redick’s expertise on hand, the Lakers could have a better shot at the title next season.

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