After weeks of anticipation, general manager Rob Pelinka has hired JJ Redick to become the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. It's a decision that will end the uncertainty and officially commence an offseason that will go a long way toward deciding the future of the franchise.
While cap space is limited, Redick will now look to wield his influence as the Lakers pursue a limited list of options in free agency.
Redick, 39, played 15 seasons in the NBA. He joined forces with some of the biggest names and most promising players across multiple generations, playing for the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Dallas Mavericks.
As fate would have it, an intriguing list of players who once called Redick a teammate is now entering free agency at the exact time he's becoming a first-year head coach.
It's possible that Redick will avoid bringing in familiar faces and instead begin his coaching career with a clean slate. There are intriguing options in free agency with ties to Redick, however, and the Lakers would be wise to at least kick the tires on a potentially fruitful acquisition.
That includes a two-way player who could potentially fly far enough under the radar to be attainable for Los Angeles.