Windhorst: Lakers 'Still on Path' to Hire JJ Redick as HC; Monty Williams Not in Mix | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors

While an official announcement has yet to be made, it sounds like all signs are pointing to the Los Angeles Lakers hiring JJ Redick as their next head coach.

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported on Thursday's episode of First Take (1:00 mark) that the Lakers are "still on path" to hiring Redick. He added that "it's not a done deal," but he believes things will "come together" between Redick and Los Angeles soon.

Windhorst also reported that "as far as I know," former Detroit Pistons head coach Monty Williams 'is not being considered" by the Lakers. Williams was fired by the Pistons on Wednesday after posting a franchise-worst 14-68 record in his lone season with the team and with $65 million remaining on his contract.

Redick interviewed with the Lakers over the weekend. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the former NBA shooting guard was moved "to the forefront" of Los Angeles' coaching search after the team's six-year, $70 million offer to UConn head coach Dan Hurley was rejected.

However, the Pistons firing Williams should create a sense of urgency for the Lakers. Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports reported that Redick is a "name to watch" for the vacancy in Detroit because he has a prior connection with the team's newly hired president Trajan Langdon. The Pistons present the opportunity to mold a young group, whereas Redick would be coaching a veteran-laden squad led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis if he took over in Los Angeles.

Still, it sounds like the Lakers will eventually get their man. Windhorst noted that a deal with Redick doesn't have to be done before next week's NBA draft but ideally should be in place by the start of Summer League in July.

By hiring Redick, Los Angeles will be taking a risk that his experience and basketball IQ will be able to make up for his lack of formal coaching experience.