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Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch recently offered a pointed remark regarding Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick’s unconventional path to an NBA head coaching position, playfully suggesting that a prominent podcasting career now serves as a sufficient qualification for the Lakers’ top job. The comment, made during a live recording of "The Zach Lowe Show," highlighted the stark differences in the coaching journeys of the two NBA figures and underscored the evolving landscape of professional basketball leadership.

The exchange occurred as Zach Lowe, a veteran sports journalist and host, discussed his own return to podcasting earlier this year. Finch, known for his candid demeanor, interjected with a wry observation directed at Redick, stating, "I mean, it’ll qualify you to coach the Lakers," accompanied by a discernible smirk. The comment immediately drew attention, framing Redick’s rapid ascent from media personality to head coach against Finch’s own decades-long grind through various coaching tiers.

JJ Redick, 40, concluded a distinguished 15-year playing career in the NBA in 2021, primarily known as a sharpshooting guard for teams including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, and New Orleans Pelicans. A product of Duke University, where he achieved All-American status and was named National Player of the Year, Redick’s playing career was marked by his exceptional three-point shooting and high basketball IQ. Towards the latter part of his playing days, and more extensively after retirement, Redick transitioned into media. He launched "The Old Man and the Three" podcast, which quickly gained prominence for its in-depth player interviews, nuanced tactical breakdowns, and Redick’s articulate analysis of the game. His presence as a broadcaster for ESPN further solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable and insightful voice in basketball. In the summer of 2023, following the Lakers’ dismissal of Darvin Ham, Redick was appointed head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that drew considerable media scrutiny due to his lack of prior coaching experience at any professional level. The appointment marked a significant departure from traditional coaching hires, which typically involve years as an assistant coach or G-League head coach.

In stark contrast, Chris Finch, 55, embarked on a coaching odyssey that spanned over two decades across continents before he secured his first NBA head coaching role. His journey began in Europe in the mid-1990s, where he coached various teams in England, Belgium, and Germany, including a notable stint with the Sheffield Sharks in the British Basketball League, where he won a championship in 1999. Finch’s tactical acumen and player development skills earned him recognition, eventually leading him to the United States. In 2009, he joined the NBA G League as head coach of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, leading the team to a championship in 2010. This success paved the way for his entry into the NBA coaching ranks as an assistant.

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Finch’s tenure as an NBA assistant coach was extensive and varied, encompassing roles with the Houston Rockets (2011-2016), Denver Nuggets (2016-2017), New Orleans Pelicans (2017-2020), and Toronto Raptors (2020-2021). It was during his time with the Pelicans, from 2017 to 2020, that Finch directly coached JJ Redick. This shared history adds an additional layer of familiarity and context to Finch’s recent remark, suggesting a relationship built on mutual respect despite the humorous jab. Finch’s consistent performance as a top assistant eventually culminated in his hiring as the head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves in February 2021, midway through the 2020-2021 season. His appointment was a testament to his long-standing commitment to the coaching profession and his ability to contribute to winning cultures at every level.

The differing career trajectories of Redick and Finch provide a compelling backdrop for their teams’ recent on-court encounters. In Redick’s inaugural season as Lakers head coach in 2023-24, his team finished with a commendable 50-32 regular-season record, exceeding many initial expectations given the coaching change and roster adjustments. However, their playoff journey was cut short in the first round by Finch’s Minnesota Timberwolves. The series was a tightly contested affair, ultimately won by the Timberwolves in six games, showcasing Finch’s strategic prowess and the development of his young, talented roster. The Timberwolves, under Finch, have steadily built a formidable team centered around stars like Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert, known for their strong defense and dynamic offense.

As the 2024-25 NBA season unfolds, both coaches are navigating the early challenges of a demanding league schedule. The Los Angeles Lakers, in Redick’s second year at the helm, have commenced the season with an 8-4 record. This promising start is particularly noteworthy given that it has occurred with superstar forward LeBron James sidelined due to injury for a portion of these early games. The Lakers’ ability to secure victories, including a pair of wins over Finch’s Timberwolves, despite the absence of their perennial All-Star, speaks to the adaptability and depth of Redick’s coaching schemes and the resilience of the squad. Key contributions from players like Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and newly acquired pieces have been crucial in maintaining their competitive edge.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves, under Finch, are also off to a solid start with a 7-4 record. They continue to be a force in the Western Conference, leveraging the athleticism of Anthony Edwards, the versatility of Karl-Anthony Towns, and the defensive anchoring of Rudy Gobert. The team’s early performance suggests a continued trajectory as a playoff contender, building on their success from the previous season. The two early season matchups between the Lakers and Timberwolves have already added a layer of intrigue to their competitive dynamic. The Lakers’ victories, particularly in the absence of James, have provided Redick with valuable validation amidst the ongoing scrutiny of his non-traditional coaching path.

The next scheduled encounter between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves is set for March 10, 2025, in Los Angeles. This game will undoubtedly carry heightened significance, not only for its potential playoff implications but also as a continuation of the subtle narrative between the two head coaches. Finch’s lighthearted jab, while humorous, underscores a broader discussion within the NBA about coaching qualifications, experience, and the increasing trend of former players, particularly those with a strong media presence, transitioning directly into high-profile coaching roles. Redick represents a new wave of leadership, while Finch embodies the traditional, arduous climb through the coaching ranks. The success or struggles of both coaches, and their respective teams, will continue to shape this evolving dialogue in the professional basketball landscape.