In 2024, the Lakers had enough. Darvin Ham was out after failing to push them past the playoffs’ threshold. His replacement was a familiar face—once a fierce rival on the court. On June 24, 2024, the franchise handed the reins to former Dallas Mavericks star JJ Redick. With him came fresh energy, bold ideas, and an unstoppable hunger to chase wins. Yet, beneath the fire, JJ had a steady anchor. Through every twist and turn, one person stood as his guiding light—boss Jeanie Buss.
Turning 40 is special—but for JJ Redick, it was unforgettable. On his birthday, the Lakers gave him the ultimate gift: the head coach title. But coaching an iconic franchise isn’t just about calling plays. It’s about trust—especially with the higher-ups. That’s why his bond with Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss matters. They know the team’s needs, whether it’s a missing piece or extra firepower. And as JJ navigates his first season, that connection could be the key to unlocking something bigger.
Speaking with the media after a blockbuster win 111-102 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, the Lakers HC shared his first-season experience. “First year here,” JJ Redick said. “Incredible support to be honest with you. There have been a few scenarios where I’ve gone to her [Jeanie Buss] for things, sometimes for consult and sometimes for action and she has responded well every time.” The 63-year-old executive always keeps the doors open for Redick to discuss pressing matters for the team. And that, to be honest, seems to have worked like magic.
JJ Redick described his relationship with Jeanie Buss: “Incredible support. There have even a few scenarios where I’ve gone to her for things. Sometimes, for console. Sometimes, for action. She has responded well every time.” #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/LoNDygeeXh
— LoJo Media (@LoJoMedia) February 28, 2025
Meanwhile, he added: “Just going through what we just went through with the Luka trade, like that, that requires a lot. Again, because AD in particular was just such a vital piece of this franchise and helped us win the 2020 championship.” Now, that looks like an emotional confession, don’t you think so?
Anthony Davis played for the LA Lakers for six years. He watched Redick as a player and battled each other on the court as fierce rivals. But while coaching the team, he realized just how important and gifted the 31-year-old power forward was. Moreover, the heat around the Luka Doncic trade also affected them considerably.
However, the time JJ Redick spent with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka, especially over the summer break in 2024, helped him understand the nerves of the franchise. Thus, creating a team that sometimes fumbles, but knows how to bounce back. Amidst all the talks, loud and soft, Redick is treading through the NBA with power and grace. And thus he further shares what helped him with managing the Purple and Gold of the 2024-25 NBA season.
JJ Redick shares his key priorities with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka
“The interview process in the very early days this past summer,” JJ Redick said. “It was all about creating an alignment interview process in the very early days of this past summer. It was all about creating alignment and you know, cohesiveness between those three people, and we’ve done that.” During the summer interviews, the 40-year-old HC focused on building alignment and a strong relationship with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka. According to Redick, establishing clear communication and mutual understanding among the three was a priority from the start, and he feels they have successfully achieved that foundation.
Feb 6, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick watches game action against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Building trust wasn’t instant. From intense interviews to mid-season trades, Redick knew unity at the top was key. His bond with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka became the backbone of his coaching journey. It was surely difficult to let go of Anthony Davis earlier in February, but to acquire Luka Doncic still feels like a dream. Thus, this Redick-Buss-Pelinka trio’s collaboration proved vital during high-stakes moments—like managing the Luka’s trade while honoring AD’s importance.
Through every twist, JJ Redick has leaned on the front office, shaping a team that, despite stumbles, always fights back. His journey as the LA Lakers HC isn’t smooth. But he’s not alone in this bumpy ride. With Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka by his side, every challenge feels possible. The trust they’ve developed fuels every tough trade call and crucial team decision. And it’s safe to say, this trio and their efforts are working for the Purple and Gold. However, the question remains: Can JJ Redick push the Lakers to win their 18th title?
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