The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold bet in 2024, handing the head coaching reins to JJ Redick, a first-time coach fresh out of the broadcast booth. One year later, that gamble has paid off, and now the franchise is doubling down.
After a 50–32 debut campaign, the Lakers have announced a contract extension for Redick, signaling that they see him as the long-term architect of their future.
From Rookie Coach to Franchise Leader
Redick’s hiring was widely viewed as a risk. With no coaching experience at any level, he took over a Lakers team in transition following the Darvin Ham era. The results, though, spoke for themselves: a Pacific Division crown, the No. 3 seed in the West, and a revitalized locker room.
Even though the season ended in a disappointing first-round exit to Minnesota, Redick earned the trust of both the front office and his players. “We wanted to send a clear message: he is our technical leader for everything that happens on the court,” GM Rob Pelinka said. “We think he’s a special coach, with a special perspective, and we wanted to make clear that we believe in him.”
Building Trust With LeBron James
At 41, Redick’s greatest strength might be his ability to connect with superstars. His relationship with LeBron James has been crucial, helping manage the balance between maximizing the 40-year-old’s production while respecting the twilight stage of his career.
That trust was one reason LeBron picked up his $52.6 million option for 2025–26 rather than testing free agency. “When he decides to retire, we’d love for him to do it in a Lakers jersey,” Pelinka added.
Luka Dončić Becomes the Future
The other half of the equation is Luka Dončić, acquired in a blockbuster trade last season. Redick praised Dončić’s offseason commitment: “The level of enthusiasm with which he has embraced the standards of our organization is very high: he moves better on the court, he defends. I expect the best possible version of Luka Dončić, and I’ve been able to see a constant evolution and growth in the process that will make him our leader.”
Dončić’s $165 million extension confirmed what many already knew: the Lakers are building their next era around the Slovenian star.
Championship Ambitions
Pelinka made it clear that Redick’s extension is part of a larger push for stability. With LeBron, Dončić, and Anthony Davis as the pillars, the Lakers aren’t shy about their expectations: anything less than contending for a title will be viewed as a disappointment.
Redick himself isn’t hiding from the challenge. This summer, he sought advice from Sean McVay, Tom Brady, and Bill Belichick, drawing lessons on leadership and preparation.