The Los Angeles Lakers have undergone a striking transformation this summer, overhauling their coaching staff in a move that has surprised many in the basketball world. The most notable change is the appointment of JJ Redick as the new head coach, succeeding Darvin Ham. Redick, known for his successful playing career and a burgeoning role in sports media, enters the coaching realm with no prior experience in this role, raising both eyebrows and expectations.
For Lakers' president Jeanie Buss, the decision to appoint Redick marks a significant departure from traditional hiring practices. She acknowledged the risks associated with hiring a rookie coach but emphasized the unique vision that Redick brings. "We wanted to kind of think a different way. Really, he's got a vision. I'm not comfortable talking about the basketball stuff, but 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," Buss explained. "We have to give him time to establish what he wants to establish."
A New Era with a Fresh Vision
Redick’s coaching staff is a blend of seasoned experience and innovative thinking. Joining him on the bench are veteran assistants Scotty Brooks, Nate McMillan, and Lindsey Harding. This experienced trio is expected to provide valuable support and guidance as Redick transitions into his new role. Buss expressed her confidence in the new staff: "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. Certainly, a 12-year career in the league, he's got a lot of experience. He knows what this league is about, and I think he'll be a great leader."
Addressing Tactical Weaknesses
Under Ham's leadership, the Lakers performed notably in several areas but also fell short in others. They finished fourth in post-up possessions per game last season, but their performance in 3-point attempts per game ranked 28th, and offensive rebounding rate languished at 29th. These statistics underscore the challenges that Redick faces as he finalizes his strategic approach for the upcoming season. However, Redick appears undaunted, with his clear aim to address these weaknesses. He has articulated plans to increase the team's 3-point attempts and improve offensive rebounding, and he is committed to running more organized offensive sets.
During his introductory remarks, Redick was succinct about his approach. "I'm going to use math," he said, signaling a data-driven mindset likely influenced by his media tenure where statistical analysis and advanced metrics play a significant role. This approach might be a breath of fresh air for the Lakers, aligning with contemporary basketball strategies that emphasize spacing, shooting, and efficiency.
Creating a Positive Culture
In addition to tactical changes, Redick is focusing on establishing a positive team culture. "The pursuit of greatness can't be miserable. Every day that somebody walks in this building, they have to enjoy it," he emphasized, underscoring the importance of a supportive and engaging environment. "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."
This ethos could resonate well with the Lakers' roster, fostering an atmosphere where both young and veteran players can thrive. Redick's commitment to player development as a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy could be particularly beneficial for younger talents looking to make their mark in the league.
Overall, the Lakers’ decision to entrust JJ Redick with the head coaching role marks an ambitious and potentially transformative turn. With the support of veteran assistants and a clear vision for both tactical improvements and cultural enhancements, Redick is poised to lead the Lakers into an intriguing new chapter. As he steps into this uncharted territory, both his supporters and skeptics will be keenly watching to see how his plans translate on the court.