Los Angeles Lakers Revamp Coaching Staff with Bold Hire
In a surprising move this summer, the Los Angeles Lakers have completely overhauled their coaching staff, making headlines by naming JJ Redick as their new head coach. The decision to replace Darvin Ham comes as a shock to many, considering Redick's lack of prior coaching experience. However, Lakers' president Jeanie Buss believes that Redick's unique vision and background provide the team with a fresh perspective.
Buss, who played a pivotal role in the selection process, expressed her confidence in Redick despite his unconventional transition from player to coach. "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 said. She emphasized the importance of giving Redick time to implement his strategies and establish a new culture within the team.
Redick, known for his celebrated playing career and promising stint in sports media, steps into his new role with a coaching staff that boasts a wealth of experience. Veteran assistants Scotty Brooks, Nate McMillan, and Lindsey Harding will be joining him on the bench, providing a support system that combines years of NBA experience.
Buss highlighted the significance of the coaching staff in aiding Redick's transition, stating, "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."
Redick's appointment signals a strategic shift for the Lakers, who finished last season with mixed results under Ham's leadership. The team ranked fourth in post-up possessions per game (7.3) but struggled in other key areas such as three-point attempts, offensive rebounding rate, and overall offensive rating. The Lakers were 28th in three-point attempts per game (31.4) and 29th in offensive rebounding rate (24.4), finishing 15th in offensive rating (115.4).
In a succinct and confident manner, Redick outlined his vision for the team's future: "I'm going to use math." This statement underscores his analytical approach to the game, aiming to increase the team's three-point attempts and improve their offensive rebounding. Additionally, he plans to run more organized offensive sets to enhance overall efficiency.
Redick's emphasis on player development and fostering a positive team culture is a cornerstone of his coaching ethos. "The pursuit of greatness can't be miserable. Every day that somebody walks in this building, they have to enjoy it. 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 explained.
This fresh approach seems to be resonating with the team, as players are already showing up for workouts despite them not being mandatory. This early buy-in from the roster could be a positive indicator of the changes Redick is set to implement and the culture he wants to build.
Jeanie Buss’s attempt to downplay expectations, stating that it's essential to give Redick time to establish his vision, indicates a long-term investment in Redick's philosophy. "Again, I just want to work to really speak for itself, so I don't want to hype it and say it's gonna be a home run. We have to give him time to establish what he wants to establish," she articulated.
As the Lakers embark on this new chapter, the combination of Redick's innovative thinking, his experienced assistant coaches, and a reinvigorated roster could potentially position the team for success. The emphasis on developing young players, increasing three-point attempts, and fostering a supportive team environment are clear indicators that significant changes are on the horizon.
The coming season will reveal how well Redick can translate his vision into reality, and whether this bold move by the Lakers pays off. The blend of fresh ideas and experienced support could be the catalyst the Lakers need to regain their competitive edge.