The Importance of Roster Construction
Steve Kerr's post-playing career was primarily spent in the broadcast booth. Despite his lack of coaching experience, he became the top candidate in his hiring cycle and received job offers from both the Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks. Kerr chose the Warriors, while Derek Fisher took the Knicks job, lasting less than two years.
As critical as coaching hires seem, they mean little if the team cannot construct a solid roster. J.J. Redick's future success with the Los Angeles Lakers will significantly depend on the players that Rob Pelinka and his front office can assemble. The development of young talents like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie is a significant focus, a priority even during their 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 main goals is to alleviate LeBron James' ball-handling duties to keep him fresh for the playoffs. Based on these criteria, Trae Young seems like an excellent fit for the Lakers.
Redick’s Long-term Potential
Redick's hiring suggests that the Lakers are thinking long-term. The organization envisions Redick as their version of Erik Spoelstra or Steve Kerr—a culture-setter who can grow with the franchise over the next decade. Foundational pieces like LeBron James and Anthony Davis provide a strong starting point. However, during their 2020 championship run, the Lakers lacked a third star, which limited their ceiling. Players like Malcolm Brogdon could potentially be acquired for less than high-profile targets like Dejounte Murray, while others like Collin Sexton were reportedly on the team's radar at the trade deadline.
Challenges in Acquiring Talent
Acquiring ball-handlers is generally a relatively straightforward and inexpensive endeavor in the market. The Lakers have invested significant assets in players such as Dennis Schroder, Russell Westbrook, and D'Angelo Russell in recent years. However, acquiring wings is much more challenging. Wings are often developed within the organization, and most championship teams cultivate their own. The Lakers seem prepared to bet on Redick's developmental acumen in this area.
The Uncertain Future of LeBron James
LeBron James' return is not a certainty. Until his future is secured, the Lakers must remain flexible about life without him. Projecting the Lakers' roster at this point is no easy task. While we understand the broad strokes of how Redick intends to build the team, we lack concrete details about 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. Redick's success will not be determined solely by his strategies but by how well the team can assemble a supportive and talented roster around him.
Quotes
“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.”