In a significant move that signals a new direction for the franchise, the Los Angeles Lakers have announced their complete coaching roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season. Topping the list is the appointment of JJ Redick as the head coach, a decision that brings fresh leadership to a team eager for revitalization. Redick, who retired from his 15-year playing career in 2021, steps into the coaching spotlight with high expectations.
"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," shared a source close to the organization. Beau Levesque, appointed as the player development coordinator, embodies this commitment, holding a pivotal role in Redick’s strategy for the Lakers' success.
A Seasoned Ensemble of Assistant Coaches
Joining Redick is a formidable lineup of assistant coaches, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the Lakers bench. Nate McMillan, with over two decades of coaching experience across four different franchises, will serve as an assistant coach. McMillan most recently held the head coaching position with the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023, underscoring his capability to guide teams through high-pressure scenarios.
Scott Brooks, another notable addition, will be an assistant coach. Brooks is renowned for his tenure as the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015. His last coaching stint saw him on the sidelines as an assistant for the Portland Trail Blazers, adding a competitive edge to the Lakers’ coaching arsenal.
Lindsey Harding makes history as the first female coach in the Lakers franchise. Her commendable work with the Stockton Kings, where she was named G League Coach of the Year, showcases her coaching prowess and potential to be a game-changer for the Lakers. She joins the team as an assistant coach, bringing a fresh perspective and a testament to the evolving landscape of coaching in the NBA.
Adding to this robust staff are Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean. St. Jean's familiarity with the team dynamics, having been part of the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, will be instrumental in aligning the new strategies with the current roster.
Aiming for a Comeback
The coaching shuffle follows a season where the Lakers exited in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. After securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament, the team was unable to advance past the Denver Nuggets. This early exit led to the parting of ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after a two-season tenure.
Redick’s appointment indicates a clear shift towards leveraging player development and fostering talent from within. His vision, coupled with the experienced hands of McMillan, Brooks, Harding, Beyer, and St. Jean, sets the stage for a focused and strategic approach to the upcoming season.
The Lakers' management appears intent on addressing the areas that led to last season's shortcomings. With Redick at the helm, supported by a diverse and experienced coaching staff, the Lakers are poised to harness a blend of veteran insights and innovative methodologies.
This coaching lineup reflects a blend of continuity and change, creativity and experience. As the Lakers gear up for the 2024-25 season, all eyes will be on how this new coaching team can translate their individual histories of success into collective achievements for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.