The Los Angeles Lakers are making strategic moves to ensure Anthony Davis remains satisfied with the team’s direction.
With JJ Redick now serving as the new head coach following two lackluster seasons under Darvin Ham, the Lakers hope to make significant strides forward. Despite their confidence in Redick’s potential in his first coaching role, the Lakers are focused on surrounding him with seasoned veteran expertise.
The Lakers are considering several former head coaches to assist Redick in his transition from broadcaster to head coach. According to Brad Turner of the LA Times, the latest name in their search is Alvin Gentry. Gentry, one of the league’s most experienced coaches, has a notable history with Lakers star Anthony Davis, having coached him during their time with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Sources: Lakers have interest in talking to former NBA coach Alvin Gentry about being an assistant on JJ Redick’s staff. Gentry coached Anthony Davis in New Orleans and his teams were very efficient offensively.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) July 2, 2024
Gentry’s coaching career includes head coaching stints with the Pistons, Clippers, and Suns. Most recently, he served as the Pelicans’ head coach from 2015 to 2020, coaching Davis during this period. Following his time with the Pelicans, Gentry worked as an assistant with the Sacramento Kings until 2022.
At 69, Gentry may not have found immense success as a head coach but has been a valuable part of the coaching staff for several successful teams. He was an assistant under Mike D’Antoni in Phoenix and won a title alongside Steve Kerr with the Warriors in 2015. His experience with Kerr, a first-time head coach, could provide a useful blueprint for his potential impact in Los Angeles.
While the Lakers are currently focused on free agency and the trade market to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season, making the right hires for their coaching staff is equally crucial. Bringing in Gentry, with his wealth of experience and past connection with Davis, could be a key move in achieving their goals.