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A year after inking a four-year contract worth $32 million to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, JJ Redick has recently secured a contract extension.
During a press conference on Thursday, just days before the start of NBA Preseason 2025 training camp, Rob Pelinka, the president of basketball operations and general manager, announced the extension, although specific details of the deal were not disclosed.
Redick, 41, acknowledged the unusual nature of a first-time head coach receiving an extension, expressing his gratitude to be part of an organization that shows such support. “I understand how rare it is for a first-time head coach to earn an extension. I truly feel lucky to be part of a team that stands behind me in this way,” he said.
In addition to discussing the news, Pelinka and Redick also commented on Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
Pelinka, 55, highlighted Doncic’s leadership qualities: “His overall presence and leadership style stood out. Not only did he lead by example, but he was also very vocal during practices about his expectations for the team’s performance and unity. I believe this evolution in his leadership will influence our training camp this year.”
Redick elaborated on Doncic’s commitment to his routine, saying, “This is his life now, and he’s fully dedicated to the new standards he has established for himself. His enthusiasm, not just for what this season can be but for embracing his new standards, is quite evident. I expect Luka to bring his best, and it’s my responsibility as his coach to help him achieve that on a daily basis.”
In addition to Doncic’s simultaneous pursuit of EuroBasket 2025 and a three-year maximum contract extension during the offseason, James, now 40, exercised a $52.6 million player option in June as he approaches his 23rd season in the NBA.
Pelinka addressed James’s future, saying, “Our priority is to afford LeBron the respect to shape his own narrative with his family regarding how long he wishes to continue playing. He has earned that privilege and is the best person to discuss his own career plans. We would be thrilled if he chose to retire as a Laker.”
Reflecting on recent conversations with LeBron, Redick stated, “I came away feeling confident about where he is mentally and I know he’s going to give us everything he’s got.”
After the preseason, the Lakers will kick off the 2025-26 Regular Season against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on October 21.
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