This summer, the Los Angeles Lakers undertook a significant overhaul of their coaching staff, bringing in JJ Redick to replace Darvin Ham as the head coach. The decision is noteworthy as Redick steps into the role with no prior coaching experience. However, his illustrious playing career and recent work in sports media hint at a potentially promising trajectory.
The Lakers' president, Jeanie Buss, articulated the rationale behind this bold move. "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," said Buss. She emphasized the organization's commitment to giving Redick time to implement his vision, avoiding any premature expectations of success.
Strategic Changes Under Redick
Under Ham, the Lakers were notably active in post-up possessions per game, ranking fourth in the league with an average of 7.3. However, the team's performance in other offensive metrics lagged behind. They stood 28th in three-point attempts per game at 31.4 and 29th in offensive rebounding rate at 24.4. Additionally, the Lakers finished the season ranked 15th in offensive rating at 115.4.
Redick's appointment signals a departure from these tactics. He plans to increase the team's three-point attempts, improve their offensive rebounding, and establish more organized offensive sets. Redick emphasized the importance of using analytical and statistical approaches to enhance the team's performance: "I'm going to use math," he stated succinctly, hinting at an analytical edge that he plans to bring to his coaching methodology.
Focus on Player Development and Team Culture
One of Redick's principal goals is to foster a strong team culture and prioritize player development. "The pursuit of greatness can't be miserable. Every day that somebody walks in this building, they have to enjoy it," Redick explained. "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."
Redick's coaching ethos aligns with the Lakers' broader vision for the future. Buss's comments reinforce this direction, underscoring the emphasis on a positive environment and robust development framework. "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," Buss noted. Veteran assistants such as Scotty Brooks, Nate McMillan, and Lindsey Harding have been brought in to support Redick, adding a wealth of experience to the mix and ensuring a smooth transition for the rookie head coach.
Transition and Expectations
As Redick transitions from player to coach, the support of experienced assistants will be vital. Buss expressed confidence in this strategic assembly of seasoned professionals, which includes Brooks and McMillan. "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 observed. With his 12-year career in the league, Redick possesses an intrinsic understanding of the game and an insider's perspective on the challenges and nuances of NBA competition.
While the true outcome of this coaching transformation remains to be seen, the Lakers' gamble on JJ Redick underscores their willingness to embrace unconventional approaches and invest in long-term potential. The coming season will be an important period for the Lakers, as Redick implements his innovative strategies and works to build a cohesive, motivated, and high-performing team. For now, the basketball world watches with keen interest, as Redick's era at the helm of the Lakers begins.