The Los Angeles Lakers have officially announced their complete coaching staff roster for the 2024-25 NBA season. The franchise, known for its storied history and commitment to excellence, has ushered in significant changes with a blend of experienced veterans and fresh faces.
A New Era with JJ Redick
Leading the charge as the new head coach is JJ Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter who retired in 2021 after an illustrious 15-year playing career. Redick takes the helm with a vision focused heavily on player development. "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," reflecting his collaborative efforts with Beau Levesque, the team's player development coordinator.
A Diverse and Experienced Coaching Staff
Joining Redick on the sidelines is a formidable group of assistant coaches, each bringing a wealth of experience and unique perspectives to the team.
Nate McMillan, a veteran with over two decades of coaching experience across four different franchises, joins as an assistant coach. McMillan's most recent role was as the head coach of the Atlanta Hawks from 2021 to 2023, where he was instrumental in developing young talent and guiding the team to the playoffs.
Another notable addition is Scott Brooks, who previously helmed the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2008 to 2015. Brooks' last NBA stint was with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he served as an assistant coach. His strategic acumen and leadership are expected to be pivotal for the Lakers throughout the season.
Lindsey Harding makes history as the first female coach in the Los Angeles Lakers' franchise. Harding's coaching career is highlighted by her exceptional work with the Stockton Kings, where she was named G League Coach of the Year last season. Her presence on the coaching staff marks a significant milestone for the Lakers and the NBA.
Bob Beyer, a seasoned assistant coach, and Greg St. Jean, who was part of the Lakers' player development team during their 2020 championship run, complete the assistant coaching roster. Their familiarity with the Lakers' system and operations will provide continuity and insight, crucial for the upcoming season.
Focus on Development
At the forefront of this developmental approach is Beau Levesque, the player development coordinator. His role will be integral in actualizing Redick's vision for the team, ensuring that player growth and improvement remain paramount.
Reflecting on the Previous Season
Last season, the Lakers experienced a tumultuous playoff run, exiting in the first round. Despite securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament, they were unable to advance past the Denver Nuggets. This early exit and the internal evaluations that followed resulted in the parting of ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after two seasons at the helm.
With a revitalized coaching staff and a clear emphasis on player development, the Lakers are poised to rebuild and improve upon last season's performance. The blend of Redick's modern perspective and the seasoned expertise from his assistants could prove to be a winning formula as the Lakers look to reclaim their spot among the NBA elite.