The Lakers’ Newfound Leader
Almost 60 games into his first season as coach, JJ Redick has the Lakers sitting in a strong position, boasting a 37-21 record and currently holding fourth place in the Western Conference. This isn’t just a matter of wins and losses; it’s a testament to the transformation he has brought to the team. After a string of coaches, including Mike Brown, Mike D’Antonio, Byron Scott, Luke Walton, Frank Vogel, and Darvin Ham, the Lakers have finally found the leader they’ve been searching for. The revolving door to the coach’s office has finally stopped, and Redick has not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them. The players are buying into his vision, and the team is playing a brand of basketball that is a stark contrast to their recent past, characterized by a renewed focus on defense and collective effort.
A Skeptical Start
Redick’s appointment as head coach was met with skepticism. The Lakers had initially pursued Dan Hurley, and Redick’s lack of coaching or management experience above the youth level was a significant concern. His personality, often perceived as smug, added to the doubts. Moreover, he inherited a roster that had struggled under previous rookie coaches like Darvin Ham and Luke Walton. The team’s roster was largely the same one that had sunk Ham, making Redick’s appointment seem like a desperate Hail Mary. However, as the season has progressed, Redick has proven that he is not just another flash in the pan. His hard-nosed, switch-heavy defensive style has jolted the Lakers, much like Sean McVay did with the Rams, and has made the team a reflection of his personality.
Defensive Mastery
The Lakers’ defensive resurgence is the cornerstone of their success under Redick. They’ve held their last six opponents to 102 points or fewer, a remarkable feat considering they traded away their two best defenders, Talen Horton-Tucker and Austin Reaves, as part of the Luka Doncic deal. Despite these setbacks, the Lakers have become the league’s highest-rated defense over the last six weeks. In Friday night’s 106-102 victory over the Clippers at Imaginary-Money-dot-com Arena, the team once again showcased their suffocating defense. The bench contributed significantly, with nine of the team’s 14 steals, including four by Gabe Vincent and three by Jordan Goodwin, who is on a two-way contract. Redick’s emphasis on defensive discipline and collective effort has seen the Lakers develop a strong identity and a collective mentality, which has been sustained since mid-January.
Resilience and Character
The win over the Clippers was particularly noteworthy as it came in the wake of several challenges. The Lakers entered the game without Rui Hachimura, who was sidelined with a knee problem, and lost Austin Reaves to a calf injury during the contest. Despite these setbacks, the team managed to secure a hard-fought victory, demonstrating their resilience and character. Redick praised his players for sticking to the game plan, focusing on slowing down key Clippers players like James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Guard Kris Dunn had an impressive first half, scoring 14 points, but the Lakers remained steadfast. Harden finished with 18 points on 5-of-22 shooting, including a dismal 1-of-10 from three-point range. "Our group, they competed, they found a way," Redick said. "It was a rock fight out there."
A Collective Effort
One of the most telling moments of the game came in the third quarter when Vanderbilt poked the ball away from Harden and threw himself on the floor to recover it. This play drew a standing ovation from the crowd, highlighting the team’s new identity. The Lakers have shifted from a team associated with flashy, high-octane "Showtime" basketball to one that values grit, determination, and defensive prowess. Redick’s influence has been palpable, and the players have embraced his mantra. "We’re not just playing for ourselves," said LeBron James. "We’re playing for each other, and that’s what makes this team special." The Lakers’ 10-2 record in February is a testament to this collective effort and the strong team culture Redick has fostered.
Looking Ahead
As the regular season approaches its final stretch, the Lakers are well-positioned to make a deep playoff run. The loss of Reaves and Hachimura could be significant, but the team’s recent performances suggest they have the depth and character to weather the storm. Redick’s impact is undeniable, and the Lakers’ fans and players alike are hopeful that this is the beginning of a new era for the franchise. "I like who we are as a team right now," Redick said, a sentiment echoed by many around the organization. The Lakers’ journey under Redick has been a remarkable turnaround, and with each game, they continue to solidify their identity as a defensively dominant team that plays with heart and resilience. The future looks bright for the Lakers, and it’s all thanks to the leadership of their rookie coach, JJ Redick.
