Los Angeles Lakers Announce 2024-25 Coaching Staff
In a pivotal offseason move, the Los Angeles Lakers have unveiled their complete coaching roster for the upcoming 2024-25 season, with notable new appointments and a strong emphasis on player development.
Heading the charge is none other than JJ Redick, who takes on the mantle of head coach. Redick, who hung up his sneakers in 2021 after an illustrious 15-year career, steps into this high-profile role with a vision to transform the Lakers. His ambition is clear, as he aims to prioritize player development, a mission he’ll pursue in collaboration with Beau Levesque, the newly appointed player development coordinator. "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," a statement from the Lakers disclosed.
Alongside Redick stands a robust team of assistant coaches, each bringing a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the table. Nate McMillan, a veteran with over two decades in coaching, joins the Lakers after concluding his tenure as head coach with the Atlanta Hawks. McMillan's extensive expertise, accrued from stints with four different franchises, will be invaluable to the Lakers' strategic approach this season.
Also joining the team is Scott Brooks, who previously guided the Oklahoma City Thunder as head coach from 2008 to 2015. Brooks was last seen offering his insights as an assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers, and his tactical acumen is a significant addition to the Lakers' bench.
Breaking new ground, Lindsey Harding enters the Lakers’ coaching staff as an assistant, marking her place in history as the first female coach in the franchise. Harding received accolades for her stellar work with the Stockton Kings, where she was named G League Coach of the Year last season. Her historic appointment speaks volumes about the Lakers' commitment to diversity and excellence in their coaching choices.
Rounding out the team are assistants Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean. St. Jean's familiarity with the Lakers' system is well-documented, having been part of the player development team during their 2020 championship run. His deep understanding of the team's dynamics will be crucial as the Lakers aim to reclaim their status as title contenders.
Last season's journey was a rollercoaster for the Lakers, who, after securing the No. 7 seed through the Play-In Tournament, exited in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. Their playoff run was cut short by the Denver Nuggets, a hurdle Redick and his team will be eager to overcome in the upcoming season. This departure from early playoff contention ultimately led to the Lakers parting ways with former head coach Darvin Ham after a two-season tenure, paving the way for Redick's new leadership.
With a refreshed coaching roster and a focus on player development, the Lakers are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting 2024-25 season. The blend of seasoned coaches and strategic newcomers hints at a strategy designed to harness the full potential of the team’s talents. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching as this new era in Lakers’ basketball unfolds.