After appointing JJ Redick as head coach, the Los Angeles Lakers must now fill out the rest of their coaching staff. Several names have been proposed as possible choices. However, according to the newest rumors, a former Detroit Pistons head coach is in the running for LA’s assistant coach position.
The Lakers have “expressed interest” in Dwane Casey, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. If these allegations are true, it makes sense to target Casey because of his teaching background, especially given JJ Redick’s limited experience.
“The Lakers have expressed interest in Dwane Casey joining JJ Redick’s staff as a [assistant] coach,” sources informed ESPN. Casey has approximately 30 years of coaching experience, including positions as head coach at MIN, TOR, and DET. The 2018 Coach of the Year is now a front office associate for the Pistons.”
Nothing is set in stone yet, and the Lakers are likely to cast a wide net for their assistant coach position. Dwane Casey would be a significant hire, giving Los Angeles a strong coaching staff for the 2024-25 season. Combining Casey’s knowledge and Redick’s basketball mentality may be a successful combination for Los Angeles.
Having said that, it’s unclear whether Dwane Casey wants the assistant coaching job in Los Angeles. He may enjoy his position in the Pistons’ front office. And if this is the case, why would he leave? Regardless, the Lakers’ quest for an assistant coach continues. They should be able to make a hire shortly, though, as free agency begins on June 30.
Who should the Lakers pick as their assistant coach?
It ultimately comes down to two types of coaches for the Lakers assistant coaching position. One would be someone with a wealth of expertise to properly assist JJ Redick as head coach. The other alternative is someone who would be a perfect fit for Redick’s coaching style.
Both options make sense for the Lakers. Redick is well-known for his basketball mind and extensive playing experience. He’s also studied from some of the best coaches in the game, including Mike Krzyzewski, during his tenure at Duke.
With that stated, someone like Dwane Casey or James Borrego would be excellent choices because they both bring a wealth of expertise to the table. However, someone like Rajon Rondo, whose name has been floating about as a potential coaching possibility, could pay off handsomely. Rondo, like Redick, has a mind for the game. Combining the two might be quite beneficial for Los Angeles.
We’ll see how it turns out. The Lakers should make a definitive decision fairly soon. The NBA’s free agency window opens on June 30. Los Angeles may be in the running for some major free agents, but the trade market is also an option.
