The Los Angeles Lakers unveiled their comprehensive coaching staff roster for the 2024-25 season, with several notable additions reflecting a blend of experience, innovation, and inclusivity. The announcement marks a significant chapter in the storied franchise's history as they aim to rebound from last season's early playoff exit.
JJ Redick Takes the Helm
Leading the charge is JJ Redick, the newly appointed head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick, who retired in 2021 after a distinguished 15-year playing career, has shifted his focus from the court to the sidelines. Known for his sharpshooting and basketball acumen, Redick’s transition to coaching has been highly anticipated in the basketball community.
Redick's vision for the team places a strong emphasis on player development, a focus he plans to advance with the help of Beau Levesque, the Lakers' newly named 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,” an insider revealed.
Veteran Expertise: Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks
Strengthening Redick's coaching cadre are veteran assistants Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks, both of whom bring a wealth of coaching experience to the Lakers. McMillan, with over two decades in the coaching realm spanning four different franchises, was most recently at the helm of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023. His seasoned perspective will be invaluable for Redick as they navigate the complexities of an NBA season.
Adamant about fostering a robust team culture and drawing from his time as a head coach, Brooks joins the Lakers fresh off his stint as an assistant for the Portland Trail Blazers. Brooks, who guided the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015, possesses a deep understanding of playoff dynamics and player mentorship. His strategic acumen and previous head coaching experience add a layer of tactical depth to the coaching staff.
An Historic Appointment: Lindsey Harding
The Lakers have also made a historic appointment by adding Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach, making her the first female coach in the franchise's history. Harding's inclusion is not merely symbolic; she brings a rich background of success, most recently being named G League Coach of the Year for her exceptional work with the Stockton Kings. Her fresh perspective and proven track record in player development are set to become significant assets to the team.
Rounding Out the Roster
Completing the Lakers' coaching staff are Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean, each bringing their specialized skills to the mix. Beyer, an established figure in the coaching world, adds another layer of experience. St. Jean, notable for his role in the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, returns with valuable insights to enhance player performance and growth.
The Lakers' restructuring signals a clear intent to overcome their recent shortcomings. Last season, the Lakers secured the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament but were unable to advance past the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
This overhaul follows the departure of former head coach Darvin Ham, who parted ways with the team after two seasons. The Lakers organization, famed for its championship pedigree, hopes these strategic coaching appointments will rejuvenate the squad's competitive edge and restore its status as a formidable force in the NBA.
As the 2024-25 season looms, the spotlight will be on Redick and his ensemble of seasoned and trailblazing assistants. Their collective knowledge and innovative approaches signal a new era for the Lakers, with the promise of a brighter, more successful future on the horizon.