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2024 NBA Finals – Game Two
J.J. Redick will be the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers
That’s both expected yet still surprising. Redick’s name popped up as a potential candidate from the moment Darvin Ham was fired (and, in speculative circles, even before Ham was fired). He’s been the clear frontrunner through most of the process, except for a dalliance with Dan Hurley of UConn.
Still, it’s surprising because the Lakers have gone with a completely inexperienced coach at a transitional time for the franchise — trying to win now in the final years of LeBron James’ career while building something sustainable for a post-LeBron world.
The Lakers made a high-risk, high-reward hire. Here are five takeaways from the move.
Hiring Redick only first step, roster upgrades are needed
It doesn’t matter if Redick is good as a head coach or not if Lakers GM Rob Pelinka doesn’t upgrade the roster this offseason.
LeBron James — not so coincidentally Redick’s podcast partner — and Anthony Davis remain the anchors. Redick told the Lakers during the interview process he wants to increase Davis’ role, reports The Athletic.
Redick described a system molded around this roster, focusing on elevating Anthony Davis’ involvement, particularly late in games, and alleviating the constant ballhandling duties on James by utilizing him more off the ball. Keeping James, who turns 40 in December, fresh down the stretch of the regular season and into the playoffs will be critical.
That means finding another high-level ball handler and shot creator on the trade market. Trae Young is a name that has come up as a potential trade target, and within a couple hours of Redick being hired Young posted this on X (formerly Twitter).
The Lakers need more than stars. Look at the last two NBA champions — Boston and Denver — and it’s clear how important it is to have quality role players who fit well around the stars. In addition to another ball handler, Pelinka needs to upgrade the talent on the wings (having a healthy Jarred Vanderbilt will help).
Redick needs to do his part, putting players in better positions and developing…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/five-takeaways-lakers-hiring-j-044427639.html
Author : NBC Sports
Publish date : 2024-06-21 04:44:27
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