BREAKING NEWS: Former Los Angeles Lakers Head coach Luke Walton Now with Detriot Piston sent a message to Los Angeles Lakers Head coach JJ Redick concerning…see more

In a surprising and heartfelt gesture that has sparked major buzz throughout the basketball world, former Los AngelesIn a surprising and heartfelt gesture that has sparked major buzz throughout the basketball world, former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton—currently serving as an assistant coach with the Detroit Pistons—has sent a direct and powerful message to the Lakers’ newly appointed head coach, JJ Redick. Walton, who once patrolled the sidelines at Crypto.com Arena from 2016 to 2019, has spoken publicly for the first time about the state of the Lakers, offering advice, warnings, and words of encouragement to the rookie head coach tasked with one of the most iconic jobs in all of sports.

Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter and current media personality, was hired by the Lakers in June 2025 amidst mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. With no prior professional coaching experience, but a sharp basketball mind and strong communication skills, Redick has been entrusted to lead a franchise with championship expectations and deep historical roots.

Now, as training camp approaches and Redick prepares to manage a star-studded roster led by Anthony Davis and a new wave of rising talent, Luke Walton’s message arrives at a critical moment—one that could define the direction of the Lakers’ next chapter.

Luke Walton’s Message: A Call for Identity, Patience, and Power

Walton’s message, released through a joint statement and follow-up interview with The Athletic, begins not with criticism or commands, but with understanding. After all, Walton once stood in Redick’s shoes—tasked with reviving a struggling Lakers franchise and living under the intense scrutiny that comes with the Purple and Gold.

“JJ, coaching the Lakers is like holding a live wire—you either light up the city, or it burns you out. I know what it feels like. The spotlight isn’t just bright—it’s blinding. But if you stay grounded in who you are and what you believe, you can lead that team to something special.”

Walton’s message quickly transitions from personal reflection to strong guidance. He urges Redick to establish a clear identity for the team, something Walton admits he struggled to maintain during his own tenure.

“The biggest mistake I made was trying to please too many people—management, fans, media. The Lakers don’t need a people-pleaser. They need a leader who knows what kind of basketball he wants to play. Don’t let outside noise dictate your system.”

Advice on Leadership and the LeBron Legacy

Though LeBron James has now officially stepped away from playing (retiring in early 2025), his legacy, mentorship, and presence still loom large within the organization. Walton, who coached LeBron in his first season with the Lakers, offered insights on managing the influence of legendary figures.

“You’ll feel the weight of the banners and the ghosts of the past—Magic, Kobe, Shaq, LeBron. But you’re not here to replicate them. You’re here to write your own story. Respect the past, but don’t let it chain you down. LeBron’s legacy is unmatched, but now it’s time to build the next one—with your voice, your vision.”

Walton’s message also addressed the importance of empowering the current roster, especially young players like Bronny James, Max Christie, and newly drafted guard Keshon Daniels, a promising two-way player out of UConn.

“The Lakers always attract stars, but the future lies in the development of your role players. Build confidence in them early. Let them fail. Let them learn. That’s how you build a locker room that fights for each other.”

Redick’s Inexperience: Warning or Opportunity?

Many critics have questioned the Lakers’ decision to hire JJ Redick with no prior coaching experience, especially with championship expectations in the near future. Walton, however, sees Redick’s fresh perspective as a potential strength—but not without a warning.

“You’re stepping into a job where most rookie coaches would never be given a chance. That’s a gift, but also a target. You’ll be tested early—by players, by media, by front office politics. You have to walk into that locker room with conviction. If they sense doubt, you’ve already lost them.”

In what many are calling the most striking line of the message, Walton added:

“Coaching the Lakers isn’t about managing egos—it’s about managing belief. In your system, in your decisions, and most importantly, in yourself.”

Detroit Perspective: Growth After Los Angeles

Since his departure from the Lakers, Walton has had stops with the Sacramento Kings and now the Detroit Pistons, where he’s been credited with helping develop a young, gritty culture alongside head coach Monty Williams. Walton reflected on how his time in Detroit has given him a clearer sense of purpose—and helped him understand the mistakes of his earlier coaching days.

“In Detroit, I’ve learned how powerful it is to slow down and teach. I didn’t always do that in LA. I rushed things, tried to win the headlines instead of the locker room. I hope JJ doesn’t make that same mistake.”

Walton emphasized that coaching in a high-pressure market like Los Angeles can quickly erode patience and perspective.

“You can lose three games in a row in Detroit, and people see it as a learning opportunity. In LA, it’s a firestorm. JJ needs to build a culture strong enough to weather those storms.”

JJ Redick Responds

During a recent appearance on ESPN’s NBA Today, JJ Redick was asked about Walton’s message. Redick responded with respect and gratitude.

“I appreciate Luke reaching out. He’s walked this path, and he knows the pressure. I’ve got a lot of respect for what he did as a coach and what he’s doing now in Detroit. Every bit of insight helps, especially when it comes from someone who’s been in the chair I’m now sitting in.”

Redick went on to say that while he’s taking advice from many voices, he’s also focused on staying true to his own basketball philosophy.

“My goal is to build a team that plays smart, fast, and unselfishly. I know I’ve never coached at this level, but I’ve been in locker rooms with great coaches and greater players. I’m here to compete, not to be comfortable.”

The Bigger Picture: Lakers’ Future and NBA Reactions

Walton’s message is being seen as more than just one former coach advising another—it’s a reflection of the high expectations and complex dynamics that come with leading the Lakers franchise. With the Western Conference as competitive as ever and teams like the Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Mavericks continuing to rise, JJ Redick will need more than just sharp analysis and smooth communication. He will need resilience, adaptability, and unwavering belief.

NBA analysts and former players praised Walton’s honesty and the brotherhood on display between coaches.

Charles Barkley commented:

“That’s real talk from Luke. Say what you want about his coaching record, but he knows the heat that comes with that Lakers job. Redick better listen up.”

Meanwhile, Kendrick Perkins added:

“This is what we need more of—coaches helping coaches. Not everything has to be cutthroat. Luke’s message might save JJ some growing pains.”

Conclusion: Brotherhood in Basketball

In the high-stakes world of the NBA, where careers are made and broken under the pressure of fan bases, front offices, and media scrutiny, Walton’s message is a refreshing reminder that behind the competition lies a fraternity of coaches who understand the struggle. For Redick, this could be the kind of wisdom that helps bridge the gap between potential and performance.