Insider details LeBron James' role in Lakers' coaching search

LeBron James. Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Insider details LeBron James' role in Lakers' head-coaching search

By Jeff Smith | Last updated 5/20/24

As the Los Angeles Lakers continue their search for Darvin Ham’s replacement, there’s been little news on who may be at the helm for the 2024-25 season. JJ Redick remains a popular name to monitor, but his podcast co-host is reportedly not involved in the team's current coaching search.

LeBron James, who hosts the Mind The Game podcast with Redick, has reportedly not had conversations with the Lakers about his co-host, nor has he played a part in the team’s search, as The Athletic’s Shams Charania said on FanDuel’s Run It Back.

"I'm told LeBron James is not involved in the Lakers head coaching search," Charania said. ... James has made it clear that this is the organization's decision. he's had no conversions with the Lakers about JJ Redick."

"I'm told LeBron James is not involved in the Lakers head coaching search...James has made it clear that this is the organization's decision, he's had no conversions with the Lakers about JJ Redick."@ShamsCharania on the #Lakers coaching search pic.twitter.com/4YbscRYII7
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) May 20, 2024

It’s interesting to hear that James hasn’t been a voice in the mix, but shouldn’t come as a big surprise. James’ future remains up in the air as he has a player option for the 2024-25 NBA season, and could still opt to become a free agent.

Regardless, the Lakers have plenty to sort out in the coming months, and bringing James back is certainly priority No. 1. But the fit of the team’s next head coach with James and fellow star Anthony Davis will be another important offseason factor.

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