Lakers hand JJ Redick new contract, say LeBron James can dictate his own timeline
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EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Lakers have rewarded head coach JJ Redick with a multiyear extension while reiterating that any decision about LeBron James’ long-term future will be left entirely to the 40-year-old forward.
General manager and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka confirmed the move Thursday during the club’s season-opening news conference. Redick, hired in June 2024 on a four-year agreement, guided Los Angeles to 50 wins and the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference in his debut season on the bench.
“We think he’s a special coach with a special voice,” Pelinka said. “Extending him clarifies that he’s the basketball leader for our on-court performance.” Contract terms were not disclosed, but league sources told ESPN the deal covers multiple seasons.
LeBron enters contract year
While Redick’s status is settled, James begins training camp next week in the final season of his current arrangement. The four-time champion chose in June to exercise his $52.6 million option for 2025-26, keeping him under contract only through this season. Entering a record 23rd NBA campaign — his eighth in Los Angeles — James has not committed beyond that date.
Pelinka stressed the organization’s willingness to operate on James’ timetable. “The first thing we want to do is give him absolute respect to choose his story with his family,” he said. “He’s earned that right.” Asked whether the Lakers would pursue a new deal if James wishes to play past 2026, Pelinka replied, “We would love if LeBron’s story would be he retired a Laker.”
Summer check-ins and roster decisions
Redick said he spent the offseason connecting with James and fellow star Luka Dončić, expressing optimism about both players’ readiness. “LeBron’s in a great spot mentally, and I expect the best version of Luka,” the coach noted.
As for the supporting cast, Redick declined to name opening-night starters, citing the roster’s versatility. “We have seven or eight starter-level players,” he said. “Last year our initial lineup lasted eight games, and we used 24 different lineups overall, so I’m not going to bang my head against the wall on that before we practice.”
Training camp opens next week, with the team’s media day scheduled for Monday.
Source: ESPN
