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

The remarks coincided with speculation that Redick was the Lakers’ selection. Rumors regarding a well-known prospect’s chance to play in Hollywood were prompted by a sighting of LeBron James at the NBA Draft Combine.

Smith made some pointed remarks that seemed to completely reverse the expectations and wishes of the majority of people regarding the direction that the Lakers should pursue their coaching search.

Smith Shares Thoughts on Lakers Coaching Search 

Among others, Redick and Cassell were mentioned by Smith, who said that Redick is considered a “brilliant basketball mind.”

LeBron James and Redick are “doing that damn podcast together,” Smith continued, alluding to their podcast “Mind the Game” and saying that he considers it “more than a coincidence.” Smith declared that although James “clearly being interested” in Redick as head coach, he is “not knocking” him for it.

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.

Perkins claims that since Davis is thirty-one years old and “in his prime,” the Lakers should consider, if not prioritize, his choice for head coach.

In the meantime, LeBron James, JJ Redick, and the potential Lakers selection of Bronny James—who averaged less than five points per game for the USC Trojans last season—in the 2024 NBA Draft have dominated talk about the Lakers around the country. As seen in the video below, Smith and Perkins appear to believe that the Lakers might be missing the boat by passing over Cassell regardless of what transpires.