The Los Angeles Lakers officially unveiled their comprehensive coaching staff for the much-anticipated 2024-25 NBA season on Monday, headlined by the appointment of JJ Redick as the new head coach. Redick, who enjoyed an illustrious 15-year playing career before retiring in 2021, steps into a leadership role that comes with immense expectations given the storied history of the franchise.
A Fresh Start with JJ Redick
The choice of Redick as head coach marks a significant shift for the Lakers. Known for his sharp basketball acumen and extensive on-court experience, Redick aims to bring a fresh perspective to the team. Speaking on his vision, Redick emphasized the importance of player development. "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 source close to the situation disclosed.
Bolstering Expertise with Seasoned Assistants
Redick will not be navigating this newfound responsibility alone. The Lakers have assembled a formidable team of assistant coaches to bolster their strategic operations. Among them is Nate McMillan, a veteran with over two decades of coaching experience across four different franchises. McMillan, who most recently led the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023, brings a wealth of knowledge and a steady hand to the Lakers' bench.
Additionally, Scott Brooks joins the staff as an assistant coach. Brooks is widely respected in NBA circles, primarily for his tenure as the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015. His last role saw him as an assistant for the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to build his reputation as a meticulous and player-focused coach.
Making History with Lindsey Harding
Another noteworthy addition is Lindsey Harding, who becomes the first female coach in the Lakers' storied history. Harding's groundbreaking appointment is not merely symbolic; she brings an impressive resume to the table, having been named G League Coach of the Year for her exceptional work with the Stockton Kings last season. Harding’s presence underscores the Lakers' commitment to diversity and excellence in their coaching ranks.
Support from the Development Team
The Lakers also announced Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean as assistant coaches. St. Jean, in particular, is familiar with the franchise, having been part of the player development team during their 2020 championship run. Their inclusion adds depth and continuity to the coaching staff, providing stability and a united front as they aim to improve upon last season’s performance.
Beau Levesque will serve as the player development coordinator, a role pivotal to Redick’s overarching strategy. This position places Levesque at the heart of the developmental processes that Redick deems crucial for the team's success.
Reflecting on Last Season
The Lakers exited early from the playoffs last season, falling in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs after securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament. Despite their valiant efforts, they were unable to advance past the Denver Nuggets. This underwhelming performance led to the departure of former head coach Darvin Ham after only two seasons at the helm.
The current restructuring signifies a pivotal moment for the Lakers as they navigate new strategies and leadership dynamics. With a blend of seasoned veterans and dynamic newcomers like Redick, the franchise aims to reclaim its competitive edge and forge a path back to championship contention.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, all eyes will be on this revamped Lakers team. The newly appointed coaching staff carries the hopes and aspirations of Lakers fans worldwide, eager for a return to glory that befits the legacy of one of the NBA's most iconic franchises.