The Los Angeles Lakers announced their complete coaching roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season earlier this week, generating a buzz of excitement and anticipation among fans and analysts alike. The appointment of JJ Redick as the new head coach marks a significant shift for the franchise.
Redick Takes the Helm
JJ Redick, who retired in 2021 following a distinguished 15-year playing career, takes on his first head coaching role with the Lakers. Redick's vision for the team emphasizes player development, a mission eagerly supported by Beau Levesque, the newly appointed player development coordinator. "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," a team insider shared.
Seasoned Coaches Join Support Staff
Redick will not be tackling this challenge alone. Among his high-profile assistants is Nate McMillan, who brings over two decades of coaching experience from his time with four different franchises. Most recently, McMillan was at the helm of the Atlanta Hawks between 2021 and 2023. His seasoned perspective will be invaluable to the Lakers' coaching endeavors.
Joining McMillan is Scott Brooks, another name well-recognized in professional basketball circles. Brooks previously led the Oklahoma City Thunder as head coach from 2008 to 2015 and had his last coaching stint as an assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers. His wealth of experience will also be instrumental in shaping the Lakers' strategies for the upcoming season.
Breaking New Ground
In a historic move for the franchise, Lindsey Harding was brought on as an assistant coach. Harding, who crafted a sterling record with the Stockton Kings, being named the G League Coach of the Year last season, becomes the first female coach in the storied history of the Lakers. Her appointment is a landmark moment not only for the Lakers but for the NBA as a whole, reflecting the league's gradual shift towards more inclusive hiring practices.
Additional Talent on the Bench
Also rounding out the coaching staff are Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean. Beyer’s previous exploits and St. Jean’s involvement with the Lakers’ player development team during their triumphant 2020 championship run add layers of depth to the coaching team. Their combined wisdom and experience promise a well-rounded approach to tackling the challenges of the new season.
Reflecting on Past Performance
Last season, the Lakers faced a turbulent journey, exiting in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. The team secured the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament but fell short of advancing past the Denver Nuggets. This outcome led to the parting of ways with then-head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons, paving the way for Redick's current appointment.
As Redick steps into his new role, surrounded by a cadre of experienced and dynamic assistant coaches, the Lakers' faithful are hopeful that the blend of fresh perspectives and seasoned expertise will usher in a new era of success.
The journey to reclaim their former glory begins with the first tip-off of the season, and with Redick at the helm, the Lakers are poised to pursue their aspirations with renewed vigor.