Three Top Frontrunners in Lakers’ Early-Stage Coaching Search: Redick, Cassell and Borrego

The Lakers coaching search is in its early stages, with three names emerging as frontrunners, according to Shams Charania and Jovan Buha at The Athletic: Mike Krzyzewski, J.J. Redick, and Sam Cassell. Redick, a former player turned broadcaster and podcaster, has expressed his desire to return to the locker room recently. Cassell, another former player who has been an assistant coach in the league for years, is deserving of a head coaching opportunity. Borrego, who comes from the Gregg Popovich coaching tree and previously coached in Charlotte before becoming an assistant in New Orleans where he helped revamp their offensive strategy, is also being considered. As the search continues, more names are expected to be added to the list of candidates.

Meanwhile, Mike Krzyzewski has reportedly been involved in the Lakers coaching search process and is providing valuable insights into potential candidates like Redick. The organization is looking for a coach who can maximize the talent of their current roster led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis before transitioning to a team centered around Davis in the future. Ideally, the candidate should be able to develop young players while commanding respect and accountability within the locker room.

As the search progresses further, it will become clearer what qualities are most important to the Lakers when choosing their next head coach.