IT IS OVER: Log Angeles Lakers National Basketball Association Current Head Coach JJ Redick had, Submitted Resignation letter to….see more

In a stunning development that has rocked the NBA world, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has officially submitted his resignation, just one season into his highly scrutinized tenure with the storied franchise.

Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter turned analyst and podcast host, took over the Lakers’ head coaching job in 2024 amidst both fanfare and skepticism. His appointment marked a bold shift by the Lakers front office — embracing modern basketball philosophies and untested coaching talent. But as of today, that chapter has abruptly come to an end.

“After deep reflection and conversations with my family and the Lakers organization, I’ve decided to step down as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers,” Redick said in a brief statement released by the team. “It’s been an honor, but I believe the team needs a different direction moving forward.”

A Short-Lived Tenure

Redick’s appointment in 2024 was seen as a gamble by Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, especially given his lack of prior coaching experience. While his basketball IQ and media presence were widely respected, many questioned his ability to manage a veteran-heavy roster featuring superstars like LeBron James (now retired), Anthony Davis, and rising star Bronny James.

The 2024–25 season proved to be rocky. The Lakers finished 9th in the Western Conference, exiting early in the Play-In Tournament. Reports of locker room tension, inconsistent rotations, and philosophical differences between Redick and senior players dominated headlines.

Despite front office assurances of long-term faith, sources close to the situation suggest frustration had been mounting on both sides — ultimately leading to Redick’s decision to walk away.

Front Office Reaction: “We Respect His Decision”

In a statement released shortly after the news broke, the Lakers organization said:

“We thank JJ Redick for his professionalism, work ethic, and commitment during his time as head coach. While this is not the outcome we hoped for, we respect his decision and will immediately begin the search for a new head coach.”

League insiders suggest the Lakers had been quietly exploring alternatives as early as late August, anticipating a potential coaching change.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

With Redick’s departure, the Lakers now face a critical juncture — both in terms of leadership and identity. Names already being floated as potential replacements include:

• Sam Cassell – Longtime assistant with multiple franchises

• Tyronn Lue – If tensions with the Clippers persist

• Kenny Atkinson – Known for player development

• Rajon Rondo – A dark horse candidate with strong ties to the Lakers and high basketball IQ

More boldly, some insiders are even speculating about a possible Phil Handy promotion from within the Lakers’ coaching staff or an attempt to lure back Frank Vogel or even Darvin Ham in a full-circle move.

JJ Redick’s Future: Back to Broadcasting?

Now that his coaching stint has come to an end, speculation immediately turns to Redick’s next move. Many expect him to return to his highly successful career in sports media, potentially rejoining ESPN or launching a new version of his acclaimed podcast, The Old Man & the Three.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if JJ is back on TV before opening night,” one NBA exec remarked. “Coaching might not have been the right fit at this stage, but his basketball mind is still elite.”

Fan Reaction: Disappointment, But Not Shock

The reaction from Lakers fans has been swift and mixed.

“We wanted it to work, but the writing was on the wall,” one fan posted on Reddit.
“No identity, no rhythm, no leadership… time for a reset,” another added on X.

Meanwhile, others expressed appreciation for Redick’s effort in a difficult role and wished him well in his next chapter.

The Bottom Line

With the 2025–26 NBA season just weeks away, the Lakers are once again searching for stability — a recurring theme since their 2020 championship. JJ Redick’s resignation is the latest twist in a franchise defined by high expectations, high drama, and the unrelenting spotlight of Los Angeles.

One thing is certain: the Lakers cannot afford to get the next move wrong.