The Importance of Roster Construction
Steve Kerr’s post-playing career began in the broadcast booth, yet he quickly became a top candidate for NBA head coaching positions. Despite his lack of experience as a head or assistant coach, Kerr received offers from both the Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks. While Kerr chose the Warriors, Derek Fisher took the helm for the Knicks, where he only lasted less than two years. This scenario underscores a critical truth: as important as coaching hires are, their impact is limited if the team fails to construct a reliable roster.
JJ Redick's recent appointment as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers brings similar concerns. The success of Redick in Los Angeles hinges heavily on the caliber of players that General Manager Rob Pelinka and his front office can assemble. A significant focus will be placed on developing young talents such as Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie. This developmental priority was made clear even during the Lakers' pursuit of other coaching candidates like Dan Hurley.
Offensive Strategy Adjustments
Redick plans to make several key adjustments to the Lakers' offensive strategy. One major goal is to involve Anthony Davis more, particularly in crucial late-game situations. By doing so, Redick hopes to alleviate LeBron James' ball-handling duties, preserving his energy for the playoffs. Interestingly, the prospect of Trae Young joining the Lakers fits well into this strategy, given Young’s ball-handling and scoring capabilities.
Redick’s Long-term Potential
The hiring of Redick suggests that the Lakers are thinking long-term. The franchise is confident that Redick can blossom into their version of Erik Spoelstra or Steve Kerr—a culture-setter who can grow with the organization over the next decade. With foundational pieces like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Redick has a solid starting point.
However, during their 2020 championship run, the Lakers lacked a third star, which limited their overall potential. Players like Malcolm Brogdon or Collin Sexton could fill this void and are reportedly more obtainable than higher-profile targets like Dejounte Murray. The wing market, on the other hand, is notoriously difficult to navigate; wings are often developed internally within teams. The Lakers have spent considerable assets on players like Dennis Schroder, Russell Westbrook, and D'Angelo Russell, but wings remain a scarce commodity.
Challenges in Acquiring Talent
While ball-handlers are relatively more accessible and cheaper in the market, wings are often cultivated within the organization. Most championship teams develop their own wings, and the Lakers appear ready to bet on Redick's ability to foster talent in this critical area. His developmental acumen will be put to the test as the Lakers aim to construct a roster capable of supporting his vision.
The Uncertain Future of LeBron James
Another pressing concern is the uncertain future of LeBron James. Until his plans are clarified, the Lakers must remain adaptable, preparing for a scenario where their roster must function without him. As of now, the broad strokes of Redick’s vision are understood, but concrete details of the overall plan remain elusive. As the season unfolds, more clarity will emerge on how Redick's strategies will translate on the court.
Ultimately, the success of JJ Redick will not be determined solely by his strategies but by the Lakers' ability to assemble a talented and supportive roster around him. The franchise is betting on Redick becoming a long-term culture-setter—a figure who could potentially lead them for the next decade.
“Los Angeles is confident he can be their version of Erik Spoelstra or Steve Kerr—a culture-setter who can grow with the franchise for over a decade.” With foundational pieces like James and Davis, they have a good starting point, but it’s the players they gather to support this core that will truly define Redick's tenure.