On Monday, the Los Angeles Lakers unveiled their complete coaching roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season, marking the start of a new era with the appointment of JJ Redick as the head coach. Redick, a former 15-year NBA veteran who retired in 2021, steps into his first head coaching role with considerable anticipation and excitement.
New Leadership at the Helm
Redick’s transition from player to coach has been closely watched by the basketball community. His commitment to player development stands out prominently, setting a collaborative tone for his tenure. "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," highlights the alignment between Redick and player development coordinator Beau Levesque.
Veteran Assistants Bring Wealth of Experience
Nate McMillan joins him as an assistant coach, bringing a wealth of experience from over two decades in the NBA coaching circles. McMillan's recent tenure as head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023 adds significant value to the Lakers' bench. Additionally, Scott Brooks, another seasoned coach, will serve as an assistant. Brooks, who led the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015, was last seen contributing to the Portland Trail Blazers’ coaching efforts.
Breaking New Ground with Lindsey Harding
A groundbreaking addition to the coaching staff is Lindsey Harding, who steps in as the first female coach in the history of the Lakers franchise. Harding’s impressive resume includes being named G League Coach of the Year for her work with the Stockton Kings last season. Her presence marks a significant milestone for the organization, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the team.
Supporting Cast and Player Development
Further strengthening the coaching lineup are Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean, both serving as assistant coaches. St. Jean, notable for his role in the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, continues to be a critical asset. Beau Levesque rounds out the staff as the player development coordinator, a role in which he is expected to synergize closely with Redick.
Looking Back and Planning Ahead
Reflecting on the previous season, the Lakers faced challenges as they exited in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs, securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament. Their playoff journey was cut short by the Denver Nuggets, prompting the organization to part ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons.
As the Lakers gear up for the forthcoming season, the newly assembled coaching staff is poised to leverage their collective experience and innovative approaches to steer the team towards greater success. The infusion of veteran coaching prowess, coupled with a strong emphasis on player development, sets a promising foundation for the team’s aspirations in the 2024-25 NBA season.