Lakers Continue to Bolster JJ Redick’s Staff With Rising Star Coach

The Los Angeles Lakers made the highly publicized and controversial decision of hiring JJ Redick this offseason. A first-time head coach with no experience on the sidelines, Redick is a major risk for the Lakers. Aware of this, the Lakers' top brass have been trying to surround their young head coach with as much experience and competence as possible. Los Angeles already hired Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks as top assistant coaches under Redick.

On Tuesday, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Lakers are adding another highly-touted coach to Redick's staff. Lindsey Harding, who spent last season with the Stockton Kings of the NBA G League and won Coach of the Year, is joining the Lakers.

Lakers Hire Lindsey Harding As Assistant Coach to JJ Redick

This is a major acquisition by the Lakers. Harding has been a rising star among coaches. She recently interviewed for the head coaching vacancy for the Charlotte Hornets. The fact that Los Angeles was able to hire someone in line for head coaching gigs in the NBA is an excellent order of business.

Perhaps Redick's existing relationship with Harding played a role in this hiring. Like Redick, Harding was an NCAA superstar at Duke, being drafted No. 1 overall in the 2007 WNBA Draft. She also spent time with Redick when he was playing in Philadelphia and she was on the Sixers staff.

The Lakers may have disappointed their fans by being inactive this summer. They have failed to make any additions to the roster, missing out on top free agents and trade targets. It is undeniable, however, that they have given Redick an excellent coaching staff to support him in his first year.

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