Anthony Davis Takes Active Role in Lakers Coaching Search, LeBron James Steps Back
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially introduced JJ Redick as their 29th head coach. During the announcement, Lakers VP of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka shared insights into the hiring process, particularly addressing LeBron James’s role.
Pelinka revealed that while LeBron James supported the team’s decision-making, he chose not to be deeply involved in the search for the new head coach. Instead, Anthony Davis took a more active role in the process. This approach makes sense given James’s potential free agency status and the likelihood that he will only remain with the Lakers for a few more seasons. In contrast, Davis, at 31, is expected to be a long-term cornerstone for the team.
Pelinka says LeBron was supportive of the Lakers in the process and chose not to be very involved. Anthony Davis was, Pelinka said, more involved.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 24, 2024
“There was no conversation between LeBron James and Jeanie Buss or Rob Pelinka or Kurt Rambis or anybody else when it comes to the Lakers’ decision-makers about JJ Redick as a candidate, about Dan Hurley as a candidate, about anybody else as a candidate,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin said on SportsCenter on Thursday. “He stayed out of this process, he let the Lakers know through his representatives that the team and the organization has to do what they feel is right for them in this moment and going forward, because odds are, the person that they hire will be with the Lakers beyond LeBron James’ days as a player.”
Davis’s involvement underscores his growing influence within the Lakers organization. As a nine-time All-Star, he is increasingly seen as the leader who will drive the team’s success. While James will continue to play a critical role, it is Davis who is expected to lead the charge on a nightly basis.
Davis has expressed his desire to finish his career with the Lakers and build a strong relationship with Redick, who he views as his long-term coach. This partnership will be crucial as the Lakers look to navigate the next few seasons and aim for continued success.