The Los Angeles Lakers have made a groundbreaking announcement ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season, unveiling a complete roster for their coaching staff. At the forefront of this significant change is JJ Redick, who steps in as the new head coach.
Redick's New Role and Vision
JJ Redick, a renowned sharp-shooter during his 15-year playing career, retired in 2021. He now embarks on a new chapter as the head coach of one of the league's most storied franchises. Known for his keen basketball IQ and meticulous work ethic, Redick has outlined a clear vision for the Lakers. A core component of his approach revolves around player development, a process he intends to oversee closely alongside player development coordinator Beau Levesque. "Redick has noted that he wants player development to be a key focus of his tenure, and Levesque will be at the center of that mission," reflects Redick's commitment to fostering young talent and enhancing the overall performance of the team.
Experienced Additions to the Coaching Staff
Supporting Redick is an experienced and diverse set of assistant coaches. Nate McMillan, one of the most respected figures in basketball coaching, joins the Lakers with over two decades of experience across four different franchises. McMillan's last role was as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023. His wealth of knowledge and strategic acumen will be invaluable as the Lakers aim to bounce back from their early playoff exit last season.
Another notable addition is Scott Brooks, who previously served as head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015 and most recently as an assistant coach for the Portland Trail Blazers. Brooks' expertise, particularly in managing high-caliber talent, will be a vital asset for the Lakers as they seek to optimize their roster's potential.
Making history with the Lakers is Lindsey Harding, the first female coach in the franchise's storied history. Harding's appointment is a landmark moment, reflecting the growing diversity within the NBA coaching ranks. Recognized for her excellence, Harding was named the G League Coach of the Year for her remarkable work with the Stockton Kings last season. Her fresh perspectives and innovative coaching techniques are eagerly anticipated by the Lakers' organization and fans alike.
Continued Development and Specialized Roles
Additionally, Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean join the Lakers as assistant coaches. Beyer brings a wealth of experience, while St. Jean is already familiar with the team, having been part of the player development team during their 2020 championship run. Their specialized roles will aim to sharpen the strategic execution on both ends of the floor.
Beau Levesque, situated as the player development coordinator, is expected to play a pivotal role, perfectly aligning with Redick’s vision. Given Redick’s emphasis on nurturing young talent and Levesque’s responsibilities, their collaboration will be crucial for the Lakers’ developmental progress.
Looking Back: Lakers' Recent Challenges
The Lakers faced a turbulent season last year, culminating in a first-round exit in the Western Conference playoffs. Despite securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament, they fell short against the Denver Nuggets. This outcome prompted the franchise to part ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons, paving the way for this renewed emphasis on a strong, cohesive coaching team.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, the blend of experienced veterans and innovative minds within the coaching staff sets a promising trajectory. With Redick at the helm, supported by seasoned experts like McMillan and Brooks, and trailblazers like Harding, the Lakers are poised for a transformative season. The Los Angeles basketball community and NBA fans worldwide will be watching closely to see how these strategic changes pan out on the court.