Lakers Unveil Coaching Roster for 2024-25 Season
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially announced their complete coaching roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season. This unveiling has brought several significant changes and additions, most notably with the appointment of JJ Redick as the new head coach.
JJ Redick Takes the Helm
JJ Redick, who stepped away from his playing career in 2021 after a notable 15-year stint in the NBA, will be leading the Lakers from the sidelines. Redick's transition from player to coach has been highly anticipated, and his vision for the team focuses intensely on player development.
Redick has emphasized that his tenure will be marked by a strong commitment to nurturing and growing the team's talent. "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," reflecting his collaborative efforts with Beau Levesque, the newly appointed player development coordinator.
Assistant Coaches Bring Wealth of Experience
Supporting Redick is an experienced and diverse team of assistant coaches, including veteran names like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, Lindsey Harding, Bob Beyer, and Greg St. Jean.
Nate McMillan comes with over two decades of coaching experience across four different franchises. Having recently served as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023, McMillan's extensive knowledge will be invaluable to the Lakers.
Former Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks has also joined the coaching staff. Brooks, who led the Thunder from 2008 to 2015 and was last seen as an assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers, brings a robust background in strategic gameplay and leadership.
Breaking Barriers with Lindsey Harding
Lindsey Harding's inclusion as an assistant coach is historic for the franchise. Harding is the first female coach in the Lakers' storied history, an accolade that underscores her impressive career. Last season, she was named G League Coach of the Year for her work with the Stockton Kings, highlighting her exemplary coaching abilities and leadership.
Additional Key Personnel
Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean also join Redick's coaching roster. St. Jean, who was part of the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, brings continuity and a focus on honing the skills of the team's emerging talents.
Beau Levesque, as the player development coordinator, is central to Redick's vision. His role will be pivotal in ensuring that the Lakers' players reach their full potential under the new coaching regime.
Looking Back at the Lakers' Season
The Lakers enter the new season with high hopes, following a challenging previous year. They exited in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs, having secured the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament, only to be halted by the Denver Nuggets.
This move to a new coaching staff, spearheaded by Redick, comes on the heels of parting ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons. The franchise is clearly aiming for a fresh start and an upward trajectory as they seek to navigate the competitive landscape of the NBA with this rejuvenated coaching team.
The Los Angeles Lakers' coaching roster is now set, featuring a blend of experienced coaches and fresh faces determined to lead the team to greater heights. As the 2024-25 season approaches, all eyes will be on JJ Redick and his team to see how they will shape the Lakers’ future.