LeBron James and Anthony Davis are fully onboard with JJ Redick’s coaching philosophy, bringing new hope for the Lakers’ 2024-25 season.
Senior NBA insider Shams Charania was on First Take on ESPN recently, where he provided insights into JJ Redick’s first few months as the Los Angeles Lakers’ head coach. Charania emphasized the notable shift in the team’s approach under Redick’s leadership, particularly how LeBron James and Anthony Davis have fully embraced his coaching philosophy.
“What I keep hearing are words like detail-oriented focused accountability. That is what JJ Redick has shown so far as head coach of the LA Lakers and it goes back to the offseason.”
“It goes back with how he’s been so far in training camp and players, people around the league, scouts that watch the Lakers.”
“It’s his out-of-bounds plays, it’s his game calling in a free-flowing Lakers offense.” He wants them to capitalize, shoot threes. We’ll see how that plays out in the regular season but for the Lakers that is a good sign, that the accountability that JJ Redick is bringing the detail-oriented nature.
“JJ Redick is and everyone in LA with the Lakers they know this is someone and you know, Stephen and I’ve known from covering JJ and being around him in the media space. He eats, lives, breathes, digest basketball on a daily basis.”
“Now, at the end of the day, it’s going to be how does he articulate that with the players? How does he relate to the players? And obviously he was a player that does help him. He knows what it’s like being a starter, being a bench player, being end of the bench player.”
“And so right now he has the full buy-in of LeBron James and Anthony Davis and the Lakers have been optimistic about it.”
Redick has impressed those within the Lakers organization and observers across the league with his commitment to ensuring every aspect of the game is finely tuned. From his training camp approach to his intricate play-calling, Redick has instilled a clear vision for the Lakers.
Charania continued to highlight that Redick’s focus extends beyond simple strategies. The new coach’s philosophy is grounded in detailed preparation, an analytical mindset, and an emphasis on execution. His style is one of accountability and sharpness, qualities that have seemingly resonated with his players.
Redick, a well-respected former NBA player and media analyst, has always been known for his basketball IQ. Charania pointed out that Redick’s deep understanding of the game is evident. That relentless passion for the game has started to take root within the Lakers’ roster, particularly among its leaders.
However, as Charania noted, Redick’s real test lies in how effectively he can communicate and relate to the players. Redick understands the varied dynamics of an NBA team, having been a starter, a bench player, and even a role player. His ability to connect with players from all levels of the rotation helps build trust and credibility.
Crucially, the early success of Redick’s philosophy comes from having the full buy-in from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. This buy-in from LeBron and Davis is particularly noteworthy, especially in contrast to the previous season under Darvin Ham. There were moments when cameras caught LeBron and Davis visibly frustrated with Ham’s calls or tactics, seemingly questioning his decisions. Their disconnect with Ham was evident, and it contributed to the Lakers’ struggles at times.
Now, with Redick at the helm, the dynamic appears different. Although it’s early, both LeBron and Davis seem committed to Redick’s philosophy. While it’s not an overnight transformation, the process is underway. Redick’s detailed, accountable, and clear approach has given the Lakers a foundation to build upon, and the commitment from their key stars is a strong indicator of potential success.
With a new system in place, fans can expect gradual improvements as the Lakers look to reclaim their championship-caliber form.
