Based on the statistics, JJ Redick is currently the leading candidate for Coach of the Year.

RC Nazemi

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The numbers say JJ Redick is the Coach of the Year so far image

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

TL;DR

  • JJ Redick's coaching has impressed despite initial skepticism about his lack of experience.
  • He led the Lakers to a strong record in his first season and is performing well in year two.
  • Redick has integrated new players effectively and fostered exceptional team chemistry.
  • The Lakers are winning consistently, even with key players sidelined, and hold an NBA record for leading after three quarters.

The Lakers's decision to hire JJ Redick as head coach drew considerable amusement from the sports community. Networks such as ESPN and FS1 echoed sentiments of "he's just a podcaster" and "he's never coached at any level before". 

Some in the media knew demonstrated he was an excellent choice for the franchise and the ideal leader to transition the team from one period to the next. Redick has achieved precisely that. 

Throughout his initial two seasons, aside from a first-round playoff departure in his debut as a coach, he's managed nearly every aspect flawlessly.

He led the Lakers to a 50-32 record in his first season, locking up the three seed in the Western Conference, despite injuries as well as a franchise-altering trade for Luka Dončić midseason. Year two has been no different. 

JJ is once again appearing to be the correct selection, and with a bit of effort, you might be able to build a case for him as an early Coach of the Year recipient. 

JJ Redick's statistical performance positions him as a genuine Coach of the Year contender.

Year two for head coach JJ Redick has seemed like a breeze for him, quite honestly. 

Redick retained his excellent coaching team, featuring former head coaches Scott Brooks and Nate McMillan, along with most of the previous year's roster, excluding a few free agent acquisitions. 

Despite those acquisitions, Redick has swiftly helped Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia adjust, eliciting performances from them that the league had considered inactive.

Redick's influence has fostered exceptional team chemistry within the Lakers, positioning them among the league's elite. This positive environment isn't merely generating enjoyment; it's directly contributing to their victories. 

Beyond just the victories, the manner in which they've been achieved is also noteworthy. Of the 17 contests the Lakers have participated in, LeBron James has sat out 14. Luka Dončić has been sidelined for four games, and Austin Reaves has also missed three. 

Nevertheless, the Lakers boast a 13-4 standing, ranking them second in the Western Conference and third overall in the NBA. The key factor, once more, is the manner in which they're securing victories. 

While this stat goes back to last year, the Lakers under JJ Redick are 57-4 (.934) when leading after three quarters. An NBA record. This season, the Lakers are 6-0 in clutch games and 8-0 when leading at half. 

 

Redick is establishing early advantages by seizing control of games and maintaining that dominance once a lead is secured. 

More: JJ Redick already owns an NBA record with the Lakers

Another stat that points to Redick rolling as a head coach is the Lakers' shooting numbers. As a team, the Lakers rank eighth-worst in 3P%, yet they are number one in overall FG%.

This shows that despite a poor shooting start from a team riddled with shooters, Redick's game plans and schemes haven't stopped them from outscoring their opponents. 

Even though it's very early in the season, I'd currently say Redick is the clear frontrunner for COTY. 

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