Report: Lakers 'zeroed in' on candidate in coaching search

JJ Redick's name continues to be linked with the Los Angeles Lakers open head-coaching role. The former NBA sharpshooter has been interviewing for opportunities in recent months, and was recently a finalist in the Charlotte Hornets search to replace Steve Clifford. Redick was beaten to that job by Charles Lee, who will leave the Boston Celtics at the end of the season.

According to Lakers insider Anthony Irwin, Redick is the leading candidate to take over the reigns for the Purple and Gold.

"Sources close to the situation speaking on the condition of anonymity say the Los Angeles Lakers are operating with the understanding that Tyronn Lue will not be available this offseason and have zeroed in on JJ Redick as their next head coach," Irwin reported. "Sources say the Lakers are approaching their sit-down with Redick hoping to be wowed. As Redick has thrived as a podcaster and television analyst, indications at this time are that he will likely do just that, and the Lakers will look to move quickly in hiring him."

Redick may be a former player, but he has no experience on a coaching staff, let alone as a head coach. As such, he will be learning on the job. The Lakers may not be the best situation for that sort of on-the-fly education. Los Angeles is a pressure cooker that has chewed up even the most experienced coaches, and the team has championship expectations as the LeBron James era winds down.

It's also worth noting that the interview stage could change Rob Pelinka's mind. Sam Cassell and James Borrego are also viewed as front-runners for the role, and both have years of coaching experience to their names. Still, if Redick impresses during his interview, he could lead a team with championship aspirations.

Redick has spent his post-playing career operating as a podcaster and a media analyst. He's developed a reputation for being a student of the game and recently launched an incredibly popular podcast alongside James. Those media ventures will likely be put on hold if Redick is successful in his bid to become the Lakers' new head coach. If he fails to uplift the franchise, he may find himself picking the microphone back up far sooner than he expected.