ESPN will try to replace the NBA veteran in the broadcast booth, as JJ Redick is expected to start coaching the LA Lakers next season. Redick has established himself in the booth, calling several games on national television during the season and announcing the NBA Finals for ESPN. ESPN is currently trying to find a replacement.
The New York Post reports that Tim Legler, an NBA veteran who has often appeared on Redick’s podcast, may replace him. The former guard and Redick have remained friends, with the former frequently participating in his “Old Man and the Three” podcast.
Legler’s admiration of Scott Van Pelt earlier this week prompted Ryan Glasspiegel of the New York Post to speculate that the former guard would take JJ Redick’s position in the radio booth:
“For years, Legler has wanted to do more games, but ESPN decision-makers resisted giving him a bigger workload onsite as he is so valuable in studio, particularly with Van Pelt. However, ESPN leadership has warmed up to the idea of him calling more games, sources said.”
Legler has also continued to be a significant presence in the ESPN studios during the NBA season, even if he would like to call games on television. JJ Redick’s exit from ESPN has created fresh opportunities, even though the network had supposedly opposed the notion given his astute in-studio commentary.
JJ Redick’s Transition From Player to Coach Might Have an Impact on His Podcasts
As previously reported, Tim Legler has often appeared on JJ Redick’s podcast, “The Old Man and the Three.” NBA fans have taken a shine to the show because of the former guard’s perceptive analysis and well-known guests.
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Redick has built an enormous platform, drawing support from past and present players and coaches like Mike Krzyzewski. In addition, he and LeBron James debuted their “Mind The Game” podcast earlier this year to very positive feedback from listeners.
Naturally, James might become a free agent even if he is expected to opt out of his contract in its final year and return to Los Angeles or sign a new one. Though improbable, the relocation would change the league’s environment and enable James and Redick to continue their podcast.
It will be fascinating to watch how things work out between now and James’ June 29 opt-out date because there are still a lot of unanswered questions.
