Darvin Ham led the Los Angeles Lakers into the 2023-24 NBA season with aspirations of guiding the storied franchise back to glory. However, their journey began with more turbulence than triumph, as the Lakers had an underwhelming 21-22 record over their first 43 games. This lackluster performance hinted at underlying issues within the team dynamics and lineup configurations.
In a pivotal move during their 44th game against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 21, Ham introduced a new starting unit, featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura together for the first time. The result was transformative. The Lakers not only secured a victory over the Trail Blazers but also set the stage for a remarkable resurgence.
Transformation and Success
The new lineup combination immediately paid dividends. Over the subsequent stretch of the season, this reconfigured starting five compiled an impressive 18-6 record. Exhibiting exceptional synergy, the Lakers outscored their opponents by 5.5 points per 100 possessions, showcasing a newfound defensive grit and offensive harmony.
Integral to this success was the smart utilization of LeBron James. JJ Redick, announced as the coach for the 2024-25 season, praised James's basketball IQ and strategic playmaking. "LeBron is one of the smartest players," Redick remarked. "I think using him as a screener and finding ways to get him the ball in specific spots on the floor where he can be a facilitator and scorer, that's what I mean by being off the ball."
Defensive Dynamics and Challenges
While the new starting unit thrived, it also exposed certain vulnerabilities, particularly on the defensive end. The combination of Austin Reaves and D'Angelo Russell in the backcourt presented defensive challenges, placing additional pressure on Anthony Davis to anchor the team defensively. Furthermore, Rui Hachimura, while a valuable asset, is not primarily a perimeter defender, which sometimes strained the Lakers' defensive rotations.
Despite these challenges, the collective talent and chemistry of James, Davis, Reaves, Russell, and Hachimura stood out. This lineup not only stabilized the team but also highlighted their potential when playing cohesively. Each player's unique skill set complemented the others, making the Lakers a formidable opponent.
Looking Ahead to the 2024-25 Season
The conclusion of the 2023-24 season marked the end of Darvin Ham's tenure as head coach. JJ Redick's appointment for the 2024-25 season ushered in a new era with fresh strategic visions for the Lakers. Redick's early schedule includes challenging matchups against the Timberwolves, the Suns (twice), the Kings, and the Cavaliers, presenting immediate tests for his coaching acumen and the team's resilience.
Redick's understanding of leveraging James's versatility and the existing framework laid down by Ham will be crucial. His ability to address the defensive vulnerabilities while maximizing the offensive capabilities of his stars will define the Lakers' upcoming season. As the Lakers prepare for the next chapter, the foundation set by the reconfigured lineup serves as a promising cornerstone for their ambitions.