The Los Angeles Lakers have made a bold move this summer by overhauling their coaching staff. At the forefront of this revamp is the decision to replace former head coach Darvin Ham with former NBA player and sports media personality, JJ Redick. This marks a significant shift in direction for the organization.
Redick Steps Into Head Coaching Role
Redick, despite having no prior coaching experience, steps into his new role with a celebrated playing career backing him. He also brings insights from a promising stint in sports media. Jeanie Buss, the Lakers' president, expressed the team’s vision behind this unconventional move. "We wanted to kind of think a different way. Really, he's got a vision," she said. "We were looking for a candidate that would bring something different and really invest in developing young players. JJ is the right person for us."
Experienced Assistants to Support Redick
To bolster Redick’s transition to head coaching, the Lakers have brought in veteran assistants Scotty Brooks, Nate McMillan, and Lindsey Harding. Buss is optimistic about the support system in place for Redick. "I'm really impressed with his staff. Right now, it's not mandatory for the players to come in and practice, but players are coming in and working out. The coaching staff with Nate McMillan and Scotty Brooks, there's a lot of experience that will be there for him to make that adjustment to being a head coach," she stated.
Changes Under Ham vs. Redick's Vision
Under Ham, the Lakers exhibited a solid performance in certain areas last season. They were fourth in post-up possessions per game (7.3) and finished 15th in offensive rating (115.4). However, their 3-point attempts per game (31.4) and offensive rebounding rate (24.4) were among the lowest in the league, at 28th and 29th respectively.
Redick plans to address these weaknesses head-on. He has already indicated a focus on increasing the team's 3-point attempts and improving offensive rebounding. Additionally, Redick aims to run more organized offensive sets, emphasizing player development and fostering a positive team culture. "I'm going to use math," Redick succinctly remarked, hinting at an analytical approach to the game.
Focus on Team Culture and Development
Redick's philosophy on coaching goes beyond strategies and statistics. He emphasizes the importance of creating an enjoyable and productive atmosphere for everyone involved. "The pursuit of greatness can't be miserable. Every day that somebody walks in this building, they have to enjoy it," he asserted. "I think part of being a coach, right, is like, 'Can I maximize each player?' That helps maximize the group. And does everybody in the building, not just the players and staff, does everybody in the building enjoy coming to work every day? That's sort of on me to create that culture."
The Lakers’ decision to hire Redick signifies more than just a change in leadership; it reflects a transformative shift in the team’s direction. With Redick at the helm, supported by experienced assistants and a clear vision for the future, the Lakers are poised to reimagine their approach to the game in hopes of achieving new heights. Jeanie Buss encapsulated this sentiment, saying, "We have to give him time to establish what he wants to establish."
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Redick and his ability to translate his vision into performance on the court. The stakes are high, but the Lakers' revamped coaching staff represents a fresh start filled with potential.