"Damn, those lights are different”: Former Laker Danny Green disputes JJ Redick's LA job notion citing Russell Westbrook example
As the LA Lakers hunt for a new head coach, JJ Redick has been among the main names mentioned. Many agree that he is capable of being a coach, but one former player thinks he should stay away from this opportunity.
While appearing on Draymond Green's podcast, Danny Green shared his thoughts on JJ Redick possibly becoming the next coach of the Lakers. He feels the longtime sharpshooter shouldn't take the job because of the immense pressure of coaching in LA.
"The Lakers job is a tough one," Green said. "Until you get in there, that ring is a different type of ring."
Green then touched on players who have struggled with the pressure that comes with playing for the Lakers. The main example he brought up was now LA Clippers guard Russell Westbrook.
"Russell Westbrook. There's not a guy that I know in this league that is as tough mentally than him. That carrys that confidence, chip on his shoulder night in and night out. He went to LA, and he just looked like a different person. I'm like damn, those lights are different."
Green has a strong understanding of what it's like to play for an organization like the Lakers. He spent one season with the franchise and helped them secure a championship in 2020.
JJ Redick addresses latest rumors regarding LA Lakers coaching vacancy
Earlier this week, the rumor mill heated up even more regarding JJ Redick and the LA Lakers coaching vacancy. In a story for The Atheltic, NBA insider Shams Charania cited that the longtime LA Clippers guard is the frontrunner to replace Darvin Ham.
"No final decision has been made yet, and the Lakers still have steps remaining in their head-coaching search process, league sources said. But the indications are strong that Redick is their leading choice at this stage."
At the moment, JJ Redick is helping cover the NBA Finals as a broadcaster. However, he has not been able to escape the latest buzz tying him to the Lakers.
While appearing on the "GoJo and Golic" show, Redick was asked about the rumors. He said his focus right now is on the finals and he plans to address everything when the season is over.
"My focus is on the NBA Finals," Redick said. "In terms of Shams, that will be addressed once the season is over. I'll just say that."
In the past, Redick has said that coaching is something he's wanted to do. However, since retiring, he's fully immersed himself in the broadcasting and podcasting field. Among the shows he does is "Mind the Game" with Lakers star LeBron James.
While Shams Charania reported that Redick is leading the pack, other developments suggest otherwise. Over the past few days, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Lakers are going after UConn coach Dan Hurley to potentially replace Darvin Ham.