An NBA executive told Hoops Wire that he’s “surprised” the Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t interview JJ Redick.
The Los Angeles Lakers hired Redick, who is podcast partners with LeBron James.
“I’m a little surprised the Cavs didn’t interview JJ,” the NBA exec said. “He’s got a relationship with Donovan (Mitchell). Yeah he doesn’t have any coaching experience, but he’s a meticulous worker and hyper-competitive. It seems like Cleveland is gonna hire James (Borrego), which could turn out to be a solid, safe hire, but I think they may regret not meeting with JJ.
“The guy left his cushy job at ESPN to coach in the NBA because he misses competing for something big. I think he made a mistake taking the Lakers job because of his podcast thing with LeBron. It’s gonna be super awkward in that locker room. I think JJ would have been a better fit in Detroit or Cleveland.”
Redick is signing a four-year deal worth in the neighborhood of $8 million per season with the Lakers, who fired Darvin Ham after two seasons.
One of the best shooters in NBA history, Redick has yet to coach above the youth level. He played 15 years in the NBA with the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks.
The Cavaliers lost to the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2024 playoffs in five games. JB Bickerstaff was fired and it’s widely assumed Cleveland will hire James Borrego or Kenny Atkinson.
Donovan Mitchell is expected to sign a four-year extension with the Cavaliers this offseason. The All-Star can sign a four-year, $208 million deal.
One of the top scorers in the NBA, Mitchell averaged 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists this season while shooting 46.2% from the field, 36.8% from beyond the arc and 86.5% from the free-throw line.
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