JJ Redick expresses his commitment to being the Lakers’ coach long-term, saying he’s “in it for the long haul.”

JJ Redick has never been shy about his ambitions within the basketball world, and his latest statement on coaching has given fans and analysts alike a glimpse into his future. With a candid declaration, Redick emphasized that he is “in it for the long haul,” expressing a deep commitment to becoming the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers for the next 15 to 20 years. The former NBA sharpshooter, known for his precise shooting and basketball IQ during his playing days, is now eyeing a future behind the bench. His words carry weight, not just because of his growing reputation but also due to the significant role the Lakers franchise plays in his life.

In an interview with The Times, Redick reflected on his journey and the challenges he’s faced since moving to Los Angeles. He spoke with sincerity, citing how the tragic events of losing his home to the Palisades fire marked a turning point for him. “I’m not moving again. I’m not moving my kids again,” Redick said, marking a clear distinction between his past moves in the NBA and his current commitment to putting down roots. His words spoke not just to a desire for professional stability but to the personal side of his life, where family and home are central.

Redick’s Vision for the Lakers

When JJ Redick talks about wanting to be the Lakers coach for the next two decades, he’s not merely envisioning a coaching position in a glamorous, high-profile setting. Redick understands the magnitude of the Lakers’ brand, but he also knows the hard work and preparation that goes into maintaining a championship-caliber team. The Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, with a rich legacy built on the shoulders of legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. The spotlight is never too far away, and coaching the Lakers comes with its own set of unique challenges.

Redick’s commitment to the team is reflective of a deep understanding of the Lakers’ culture. The team has experienced ups and downs in recent years, but under the leadership of coach Frank Vogel, they clinched the 2020 NBA championship, showing that the Lakers’ thirst for excellence remains ever-present. Redick sees the potential for greatness in this franchise, and his desire to lead them reflects a strong belief that he could be the one to sustain their success in the long term.

Though Redick is still relatively new to the coaching scene compared to other candidates, his perspective is informed by years of playing at the highest level. He spent over a decade in the NBA, playing for teams like the Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, and, of course, the Los Angeles Clippers. He was known not only for his incredible shooting ability but also for his basketball IQ, leadership, and high-level understanding of the game. This experience could very well translate into his coaching philosophy, as he aims to help the Lakers remain competitive in an evolving league.

Family and Personal Roots in Los Angeles

Beyond basketball, Redick’s attachment to Los Angeles speaks volumes. The city has become a second home for him and his family, and following the devastating loss of their home in the Palisades fire, Redick has emphasized how important it is for him and his family to stay put. This shift from being a player who frequently moved from team to team during his career to a person looking for stability mirrors his current mindset and personal growth. The city of Los Angeles represents more than just a professional opportunity; it represents a new chapter for his life off the court.

“I’m in it for the long haul in L.A.,” Redick stated, underscoring the personal roots he is planting in the city. His commitment to staying put is not just about having a long-term coaching job—it’s about finding a place for his family to thrive, creating a sense of belonging, and investing in the community.

His family has been a major influence in his decision-making, and it’s clear that their well-being is at the forefront of his priorities. By choosing not to uproot his family again, Redick is signaling his desire to find a permanent home both personally and professionally. The Lakers’ head coaching position is just one way he hopes to secure a future for his family in a city he loves. Redick’s children, who experienced the upheaval of a home fire, will benefit from his stable presence in L.A. as he pursues his coaching career.

The Lakers’ Coaching Carousel

In recent years, the Lakers have been through a coaching carousel. The 2020 championship under Frank Vogel was followed by a series of high expectations and mixed results. After Vogel’s departure, the Lakers searched for a coach who could carry the torch for the franchise. Redick’s interest in coaching the Lakers reflects an understanding of the importance of continuity and leadership.

While Redick has never been a head coach, he has built up a solid foundation of experience that makes him a valuable candidate for the position. Having been a student of the game for years, he has witnessed the best of coaching from a variety of successful mentors. With his keen ability to analyze the game and his understanding of what it takes to succeed in the modern NBA, Redick is positioning himself to be a natural leader in the coaching ranks. His experience as a player has given him insight into the needs and mindset of professional athletes. Redick understands how to get the best out of players, not just through technical skills but also by motivating and challenging them.

The Lakers’ next coach will inherit a roster filled with talented players like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and others, making the ability to manage big personalities and diverse playing styles crucial. Redick has seen firsthand how crucial it is to create a cohesive team and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. His attention to detail and calm under pressure could prove invaluable in navigating the intense expectations of coaching the Lakers.

A Shift Toward Player Development

One of the most significant parts of Redick’s statement was his focus on player development. He understands that coaching is not just about managing games but also about helping players improve and reach their full potential. This mindset is critical in a league that is increasingly focused on player growth and maximizing individual talents.

If Redick were to take the reins as head coach, he would likely emphasize developing the Lakers’ younger players, grooming them to complement the established stars like LeBron and AD. Over the past several seasons, the Lakers have invested heavily in younger talent, with players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and others gaining significant minutes. A coach like Redick could help guide these players toward becoming crucial contributors, while also finding the right balance with the veterans.

Additionally, Redick’s playing style and experience—having been a shooter and a vital part of several high-scoring offenses—would likely lead him to emphasize spacing, ball movement, and creating open shots. His teams would likely focus on offensive fluidity while maintaining a commitment to defense, which is an essential part of the Lakers’ identity.

A Vision for the Lakers

When asked about his vision for the Lakers, Redick was clear: he wants to build a culture of excellence, sustained success, and mutual respect between players and coaching staff. Redick has always been known for his professionalism, and that would translate to his coaching philosophy. He would expect his players to buy into his system while fostering an environment where they feel empowered to succeed.

A long-term commitment to the Lakers means Redick sees the potential for sustained success. His desire to remain in L.A. for decades speaks to a deep belief in the franchise’s potential to remain competitive for years to come, even as the league continues to evolve.

The Path Forward

As JJ Redick continues to work his way up the coaching ladder, his declaration of commitment to the Lakers will not go unnoticed. While he may not be the front-runner to be the Lakers’ next head coach, his ambition and vision for the future of the franchise are clear. Redick is positioning himself as someone who is ready for the challenge and determined to succeed.

Whether or not the Lakers decide to hire Redick in the near future, one thing is certain: he is on a path to becoming a prominent figure in coaching. His work ethic, basketball knowledge, and passion for the game make him a serious candidate for any team looking to build something special. And with his personal connection to Los Angeles, the Lakers’ culture, and his dedication to staying for the long haul, Redick has the potential to make a significant impact in the NBA as a coach for years to come.

In the end, JJ Redick’s commitment to the Lakers and to his family illustrates the balance between personal and professional aspirations. It’s a combination that could make him the perfect fit for leading the Lakers in the years ahead.