Earlier this summer, the Los Angeles Lakers appointed JJ Redick as their new head coach, replacing Darvin Ham, who was let go after failing to build on the Lakers’ 2023 Western Conference Finals appearance. Redick’s role involves making the team competitive and introducing a new player-development approach.
Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times reports that some Lakers players are already noticing Redick’s influence as the team gears up for training camp. Woike’s insights come from the new training routines Redick has introduced for the players currently working with the team in Los Angeles.
“These workouts mark the beginning of a formal relationship between JJ Redick, his staff, and the players. The initial impression might reveal how the new coach plans to operate,” Woike noted. “The workouts have included more live basketball—such as one-on-one and three-on-three drills—compared to previous summers, which focused more on individual, noncompetitive training.”
As a rookie head coach with no prior professional coaching experience, Redick faces the challenge of leading one of the world’s most high-profile teams. He’s entered a high-pressure environment where he will need to prove himself quickly.
Despite the pressure, the Lakers sought a new perspective in their locker room. Redick is expected to gain immediate respect from players due to his NBA background and to introduce modern strategies with the support of a seasoned coaching staff.
It’s uncertain what specific goals the Lakers’ front office has set for Redick this season. However, if he emphasizes player development and an expansive style of play, he could become a significant asset to the team in the future.
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