The Los Angeles Lakers finally have their new head coach in JJ Redick. After two underwhelming seasons with Darvin Ham, the Lakers are hoping to take significant steps forward under Redick’s stewardship.
Even though the Lakers are high on what Redick can do in his first coaching experience, they are trying to surround him with as much veteran competence as possible. The Lakers are considering multiple former head coaches who can help Redick in his transition from broadcaster to head coach.
The latest name in their search for experienced assistant coaches, the Lakers are reportedly interested in talking to Alvin Gentry, according to Brad Turner of LA Times. Not only is Gentry one of the most experienced coaches in the league but he also has extensive history with Lakers star Anthony Davis.
Lakers Interested in Bringing Anthony Davis’ Former Head Coach
Gentry had multiple head coaching stints in the NBA, including with the Pistons, Clippers, and the Suns. Most recently, he was the head coach of the Pelicans between 2015 and 2020 when he coached Davis. Since then, he has worked as an assistant with the Sacramento Kings until 2022.
The 69-year-old head coach hasn’t found much success as a head coach in the NBA but has been a part of the coaching staff in plenty of successful teams. He was an assistant under Mike D’Antoni in Phoenix and won a title next to Steve Kerr in 2015.
Gentry’s experience next to another first-time head coach Kerr with the Warriors could provide a blueprint for the impact he could have in Los Angeles.
The Lakers are currently preoccupied with free agency and the trade market, trying to improve the roster ahead of next season. However, they also have to make the right hires to their coaching staff and Gentry is as good of an option as any.
