JJ Redick Joined by Two New Names in Lakers’ Head Coach Search, per NBA Insider

James's podcast partner is emerging as a key target in the Lakers' coaching search.

JJ Redick and LeBron James on the 'Mind the Game' Podcast. /

ESPN NBA analyst JJ Redick, New Orleans Pelicans assistant James Borrego and Boston Celtics assistant Sam Cassell have emerged as "early top targets" in the Los Angeles Lakers coaching search, according to a report from Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Redick, who hosts a podcast with James, is the most intriguing name, while Cassell provides plenty of assistant coaching chops. Borrego boasts the lone head coaching experience of the three from his time with the Hornets.

One source noted to Charania that this hire should be more about Anthony Davis than LeBron James, as the next coach will be tasked with ushering in the end of the James era in Los Angeles and the rebuild centered around Davis.

The Lakers are placing a premium on maximizing Davis' play and the returning core, with an eye towards "high-level" player development. Former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski is playing a prominent role in the search as well. That piece is notable, considering Krzyzewski coached James and Davis on Team USA in addition to Redick at Duke.

The franchise is replacing Darvin Ham, who was fired after the team's first round exit following two seasons at the helm in Los Angeles.