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Stephen A. Smith reveals true feelings on Lakers’ JJ Redick coaching interest

Originally posted on ClutchPoints | By Nick Meyer | Last updated 5/15/24

The Los Angeles Lakers’ coaching search has led to speculation that former Clippers guard and NBA podcaster and analyst JJ Redick could be the team’s next selection as head coach. Recently, longtime NBA commentator Stephen A. Smith revealed his true feelings about the possibility of Redick being hired, plus his thoughts on a former NBA All-Star whose name is also in the mix.

The comments came as rumors swirled about Redick being the Lakers’ choice. A LeBron James NBA Draft Combine sighting sparked rumors about a well known prospect’s likelihood of playing in Tinseltown.

Smith had strong comments that appeared to flip the script on how most people are expecting and wishing the Lakers to go in terms of where their coaching search takes them next.

Smith Shares Thoughts on Lakers Coaching Search

Smith spoke about Redick and Cassell among others, stating that Redick is regarded as a “brilliant basketball mind.”

Smith added that he finds it “more than a coincidence” that Redick and LeBron James are “doing that damn podcast together,” referencing their ‘Mind the Game’ show. Smith said he’s “not knocking” James for him “clearly being interested” in Redick as head coach.

Stephen A. Smith and Lil Wayne. Feb 16, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Team Stephen A coaches Stephen A. Smith and Lil Wayne look on with player AJ McLean (00) in the third quarter against Team Shannon in the All Star Celebrity Game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

He concluded his segment by saying that he believes former Timberwolves guard and NBA All-Star Sam Cassell “deserves this opportunity” before passing the mic to Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA champion himself with the Boston Celtics.

Perkins’ Anthony Davis Reason for Redick Skepticism

Perkins acknowledged James’ apparent preference for Redick as the team’s next head coach, while sharing the Anthony Davis related reason the Lakers should pump the brakes a bit on Redick.

According to Perkins, Davis is “in his prime” at age 31, and his preference for head coach should be taken into account, if not the focus of the Lakers’ coaching search.

Meanwhile, the Lakers talk nationwide has centered around LeBron James, JJ Redick, and the possibility of the Lakers selecting Bronny James, who averaged less than five points per game for the USC Trojans last season, in the 2024 NBA Draft. Regardless of what happens, Smith and Perkins seem to think the Lakers could be missing the boat by passing over Cassell, as shown in the video below.