Los Angeles Lakers Unveil Comprehensive Coaching Staff for 2024-25 Season
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially announced their complete coaching staff roster for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season, marking a significant overhaul aimed at reinvigorating the team's competitive edge. The most notable change is the appointment of JJ Redick as the new head coach, a move set to invoke both excitement and curiosity among fans and analysts. Redick, a former player with a 15-year career, retired in 2021 but his transition to a coaching role has been eagerly anticipated by those who followed his career closely.
Redick's appointment is complemented by a diverse and experienced group of assistant coaches who bring a wealth of knowledge and a range of skills to the table. Nate McMillan, with over two decades of coaching experience across four different franchises, joins the Lakers as an assistant coach. McMillan most recently served as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023, and his extensive background in the league is expected to be a valuable asset for the Lakers.
Another significant addition to the coaching staff is Scott Brooks, who takes on the role of assistant coach. Brooks was the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015, leading them to multiple playoff appearances including a trip to the NBA Finals. More recently, he worked as an assistant coach for the Portland Trail Blazers, and his experience and strategic acumen are likely to be crucial in the Lakers’ efforts to improve their standings.
In a historic move, Lindsey Harding has been hired as an assistant coach, making her the first female coach in the history of the Lakers franchise. Harding, who was named G League Coach of the Year last season for her work with the Stockton Kings, brings fresh perspectives and proven success in player development. Her appointment underscores the Lakers' commitment to embracing diversity and innovation on their coaching staff.
Adding to this robust coaching lineup is Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean, both serving as assistant coaches. Beyer and St. Jean have previously collaborated in various capacities and bring continuity and stability to the Lakers' coaching framework. St. Jean, in particular, was part of the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, and his familiarity with the organization’s culture and ethos will be invaluable.
Beau Levesque has been named the player development coordinator, a critical role that will be central to Redick's coaching philosophy. "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," stated a source close to the team. This emphasis on nurturing talent from within aligns with Redick’s vision of building a strong, sustainable team that can compete across multiple seasons.
Last season, the Lakers faced considerable challenges, exiting in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs after securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament. Their journey was halted by the Denver Nuggets, a stumbling block that management is keen to overcome. The appointment of this new, highly experienced coaching staff aims to turn the tide and bring the Lakers back to their championship-winning ways.
The Lakers’ decision to part ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after just two seasons signals a strong desire to shake things up and redirect the team towards a more prosperous path. With Redick at the helm and a fortified coaching staff behind him, the Lakers are setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing season. As the team gears up for training camp, the basketball world will be watching closely to see how these changes translate on the court.
The upcoming season holds myriad possibilities for the Los Angeles Lakers, and with this new coaching lineup, they appear poised to pivot towards a future laden with potential and promise. Fans have much to look forward to as the organization commits to a fresh chapter in its storied history.