The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024-25 season was disappointing, even with LeBron James running the offense. Their postseason hopes fizzled out quickly, leading to a move that no one saw coming: trading Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for superstar Luka Dončić. This blockbuster trade sent shockwaves through the league, creating a powerful, if unproven, new duo in Los Angeles.
While many fans remained skeptical, the pairing of James and Dončić brings undeniable firepower. The organization must address the chemistry issues that plagued them a season ago and build a true contender around their new foundation.
What Is JJ Redick’s Plan to Fix the Lakers’ Locker Room?
Following the team’s practice on Saturday, new head coach JJ Redick addressed the media, focusing on the team’s renewed chemistry. With Dončić entering what many call his ‘revenge’ season, the Lakers have clarified that their system will now be centered around the young phenom.
Redick emphasized the importance of communication in building a winning culture. He said, “To me, the best teams, the best groups, the best organizations in any field, small interactions are so important. And how many small interactions can you have in a game? You should have thousands. ‘Good screen. Good job. Good pass. I got you next time.’”
However, Redick acknowledged that these fundamental interactions were missing from last year’s squad.
“That’s what we’re starting to see from our group. We weren’t great with that last year,” he admitted. “That’s part of our championship communication. That stuff is happening in real time, and we’re really happy with the progress [we’ve] made. Still got a ways to go, but it’s happening.”
The Lakers also boosted their roster by signing Deandre Ayton this offseason, with fans dreaming of an 18th championship banner. Redick’s confidence is further bolstered by Dončić’s viral physical transformation over the summer, signaling his commitment to the upcoming season.
Despite the optimism, the team’s starting five remains a question mark, especially with James currently sidelined.
“It is unclear what the starting lineup is gonna be,” Redick said. “That’s the reality until [James] is back. We’ll have to figure that out.”
How Will Dončić and Reaves Lead Without LeBron James?
As the Lakers head into the preseason, they must navigate the court without James. To make the most of this time, Redick plans to lean heavily on the backcourt duo of Dončić and Austin Reaves.
“I think with just the two of them, it makes it a little bit easier, because Austin is so good and dynamic off the ball… In some ways, that’s less of a concern until LeBron gets back,” Redick said, according to Lakers reporter Raj Chipalu.
The Lakers will continue their preseason preparations with a game against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday, October 12.
