Report: Lakers interview Redick, Borrego, Cassell
The Los Angeles Lakers have completed formal meetings with former NBA veteran JJ Redick, New Orleans Pelicans associate coach James Borrego, and Boston Celtics assistant Sam Cassell, sources told The Athletic's Jovan Buha and Shams Charania.
Lakers officials also plan to meet with Denver Nuggets assistant David Adelman, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, and Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn for the vacancy.
The franchise is infatuated with Redick's coaching potential. L.A. reportedly views him as a prospect akin to legendary coach Pat Riley, who led L.A. to four championships in the 1980s as a first-time head coach.
Lakers star LeBron James has apparently remained out of the franchise's coaching search despite co-hosting the "Mind The Game" podcast with Redick. James' representation, Rich Paul, said Redick isn't being considered to appease the NBA icon.
"LeBron James and JJ Redick, they do a podcast together," Paul told The Athletic on Monday. "That does not mean that (James) wants Redick as his head coach."
The Lakers are reportedly looking for a bench boss that can lead the franchise in the post-James era and command the locker room, as well as hold players accountable, provide structure and organization, and game plan tirelessly, according to Buha and Charania.
Borrego previously spent four seasons as the Charlotte Hornets' head coach, compiling a 148-183 record from 2018-2022. He helped guide the Pelicans to the 11th-ranked offense this past season as an assistant. Cassell has been an assistant coach since 2009. The 14-year NBA vet has had pitstops with the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Celtics.
L.A. parted ways with Darvin Ham earlier in May. He went 90-74 over his two seasons with the franchise but posted a 9-12 playoff record.