The Los Angeles Lakers have made a series of polarizing decisions this offseason, but the intention was consistent throughout their respective processes. Rather than going all-in on a short-term fix, the Lakers have prioritized a sustainable solution to present-day problems.
With the recent announcement of the 2024-25 coaching staff, the Lakers have officially revealed how they intend to define sustainable solutions.
Redick and the Lakers have compiled a coaching staff that’s headlined by the likes of Scott Brooks, Lindsey Harding, and Nate McMillan. Joining them will be Bob Beyer, Beau Levesque, and Greg St. Jean, as well as Michael Wexler as the head video coordinator.
In a press release published to NBA.com, Redick revealed what the intention is behind the additions to his coaching staff: Internal player development.
“Our goal from day one is about fostering a high-performing environment of player development and team alignment through relentless work, daily collaboration and innovation. Players and staff are here to enjoy the pursuit of excellence every time they step on the court. The expectations are clear, and my staff and I are committed to doing everything we need to do to ensure success at the highest level.”
Player development has been the most consistently overlooked aspect of the Lakers’ recent attempts at winning and is now becoming the primary focal point of the new head coach.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick vows to prioritize player development
Redick inherited a team with several interesting young players, including Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Austin Reaves. Shortly after his hiring, the Lakers added to that group by re-signing Max Christie and drafting Dalton Knecht in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft.
With the addition of Bronny James via a second-round draft pick and Colin Castleton, Blake Hinson, and Armel Traoré on two-way contracts, the youth movement is in full effect.
Maxwell Lewis, 22, will also return for his second season with the Lakers in 2024-25. The same can be said for 24-year-olds Jaxson Hayes and Cam Reddish, while defensive specialist Jarred Vanderbilt, 25, is preparing for his third season with the team.
Not every player will become a key contributor under Redick, but his hiring was clearly executed with the intention of maximizing the value of the young talent on the roster.
It’s an essential aspect of team-building, especially in the aftermath of the introduction of salary cap rules that have strengthened financial restrictions and penalties. Unfortunately, it’s also been overlooked and blatantly disregarded throughout the Rob Pelinka era.
For instance, since 2020, the Lakers have parted with first-round draft picks in trades for D’Angelo Russell, Dennis Schröder, and Russell Westbrook.
As the Lakers actively shop Russell and prepare to move on from yet another point guard it traded a first-round draft pick to acquire, Redick is looking to buck the trend. Instead of relying on trades to improve, he wants to help the team establish a culture of accountability and internal growth.
It’s long overdue, but it’s better late than never for a Lakers franchise that has operated as though they were allergic to a long-term vision.
