LeBron James Avoids Expectations for Lakers, Emphasizes Trusting the Process Under…read more
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and new head coach JJ Redick, kicked off their preparation for the 2024-25 NBA season with a team meeting in Beverly Hills. During the meeting, Redick and his coaching staff laid out their vision for the team’s offensive and defensive schemes, as well as their values and ground rules. The goal was to ensure that players were familiar with the new systems ahead of their first practice, saving valuable court time.
LeBron James spoke about the importance of this approach, emphasizing consistency. “It’s not about who is playing, it’s about what we want to do every night. We want to play the same way every single night,” he said, highlighting the team’s focus on establishing a solid identity, regardless of lineup changes.
Having previously worked with Redick on his podcast, James is confident in the new head coach’s process, praising Redick’s meticulous attention to detail. Redick, known for his obsession with efficiency during his playing career, has made it clear that time management will be a central part of his coaching philosophy.
“One of the things that I’m big on is using time efficiently,” Redick explained. “I haven’t been around LeBron a ton, but I know that’s big for him as well. Any NBA player will tell you they value their time, and I didn’t want to waste time today with long meetings.”
The Lakers’ first practice, which lasted over two hours, involved installing plays for critical in-game situations, followed by scrimmages and competitive drills. Redick split the team into six lineups across three half-court games, testing various player combinations. According to Redick, the practice reflected the team’s preseason discussions and efforts.
“Our preparation bore fruit,” Redick said. “It was a very productive day. The focus and intent were there, and everything we’ve talked about over the last six to eight weeks showed in how we played today.”
The atmosphere at the Lakers’ practice facility was upbeat, boosted by DJ Meel’s playlist of old-school and modern rap. By first-day-of-camp standards, the vibes were noticeably better than last season, and LeBron echoed that sentiment. “Great day,” James said. “Great first day.”
One player who impressed during practice was Max Christie, a third-year wing who recently signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Lakers. Christie has already gained the trust of the coaching staff, according to Redick.
“The biggest thing is we’ve been super organized and good at upholding discipline,” Christie said. “We’re being really efficient with our time, and that’s been a key message throughout the offseason.”
Redick also praised Christie’s performance, along with second-year guard Jalen Hood-Schifino, who recently returned to the court after back surgery in March. James echoed the praise for Christie, calling him “fantastic” and predicting a significant role for him in the upcoming season. “Max will be a big part of our rotation. He’s gotten better and better, and I’m happy we brought him back in the summer.”
Redick revealed his plans to use a nine-man rotation during the regular season, with the starting lineup of Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, and D’Angelo Russell already set. This leaves several players, including Gabe Vincent, Christie, Jaxson Hayes, and Dalton Knecht, competing for the remaining bench spots. With Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood sidelined through training camp, the competition for rotation spots is heating up.
“There’s definitely some competition for the ninth spot,” Redick said, noting that preseason games and practices will help finalize the rotation over the next few weeks. While Cam Reddish didn’t participate due to soreness, his perimeter defense could be crucial if Vanderbilt remains unavailable.
As for setting expectations for the Lakers, LeBron is keeping things in perspective, stressing the importance of patience. “I don’t have any expectations right now,” James said. “That’s unfair to put on us. We just need to focus on coming to practice, working every day, trusting the process, and getting better.”
The Lakers’ new era under JJ Redick is officially underway, with a focus on structure, efficiency, and gradual improvement as they prepare for a promising season ahead.
