The Importance of Roster Construction
Steve Kerr spent the bulk of his post-playing career in the broadcast booth. Despite lacking experience as a head or assistant coach, he became the top candidate in the coaching cycle and was offered two jobs. Both the Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks sought him out, but it was Derek Fisher who ultimately took the Knicks job and lasted less than two years. This example underscores an essential truism in basketball: as much importance as we assign to coaching hires, they don't matter much if the team can't get the roster right.
Take the case of JJ Redick and his anticipated success with the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick’s achievements will hinge significantly on the players that Rob Pelinka and his front office can amass. A primary focus will be the development of young talents like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie. This developmental priority was emphasized even during the pursuit of other coaching candidates like Dan Hurley.
Offensive Strategy Adjustments
Redick plans to involve Anthony Davis more in the offense, particularly in late-game situations. One of his major goals is to reduce LeBron James' ball-handling duties to keep him fresh for the playoffs. The potential fit of Trae Young with the Lakers makes a lot of sense based on several criteria. Redick’s strategies signal a long-term vision, which implies the Lakers are thinking ahead.
Redick’s Long-term Potential
Los Angeles is confident that Redick 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, it's a solid starting point. During their 2020 championship run, the Lakers lacked a third star, which limited their ceiling. The potential acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon, who could probably be acquired for less than someone like Dejounte Murray, or even Collin Sexton, who was reportedly a target at the trade deadline, could address this issue.
The wing market is typically less forgiving and more challenging to navigate. Ball-handlers tend to be cheaper and more available, evidenced by the Lakers' significant investments in players like Dennis Schroder, Russell Westbrook, and D'Angelo Russell in recent years. Wings, on the other hand, are much harder to come by and are often developed within the organization. Most championship teams cultivate their own wings, and the Lakers appear ready to bet on Redick's developmental acumen in this regard.
Challenges in Acquiring Talent
As crucial as Redick’s strategies and long-term vision are, the success of his tenure will largely depend on the roster assembled around him. The Lakers have faced challenges in acquiring wings, which are vital components for championship teams. The organization has spent significant assets on ball-handlers but has struggled to secure impactful wings in the market.
The Uncertain Future of LeBron James
An element of uncertainty looms over the Lakers' future, primarily revolving around LeBron James. James isn't guaranteed to return, and until his future is secured, the Lakers have to remain flexible about life after him. There's no easy way to project the Lakers’ roster at this point. While we understand the broad strokes of how Redick wants to build the team, we lack concrete details on the overall plan.
As the season progresses, it will become clearer how Redick's vision will translate on the court. For now, Lakers fans can only speculate and hope for the best. His success won’t be determined solely by his strategies but also by how adeptly the team can assemble a supportive and talented roster around him.
Concluding Thoughts
The Lakers' faith in Redick as a decade-long culture-setter is encouraging, but it comes with its set of challenges. From acquiring the right talent to developing young prospects and navigating the uncertainties surrounding LeBron James, Redick has his work cut out for him. The upcoming season will be a litmus test for his strategies and the front office's ability to construct a competitive roster.
“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.” This quote encapsulates the hope and expectations pinned on Redick. Whether he can live up to these high expectations will unfold in the upcoming seasons, providing a thrilling narrative for Lakers fans and the wider basketball community.