bleacherreport
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has addressed the speculation surrounding his recent comments about the team's roster construction, which some interpreted as a subtle jab at former Lakers star LeBron James. In a conversation with The Athletic's Sam Amick, Redick explained that his statement was focused on the new depth options supporting Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, not a critique of James.
On September 24, shortly after James departed for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency, Redick told reporters that he felt the current Lakers squad was "the first time in my three years here that I feel like the pieces actually fit together." The remark raised eyebrows, but Redick later clarified to Amick that it was about the team's enhanced versatility.
"When I said the pieces fit, that's more about having depth, having multiple ballhandlers besides Luka and AR, having more shooting, more volume shooting, having an elite rim protector – the combination of all those pieces," Redick said, according to Amick. He also highlighted the importance of wing defenders, expressing confidence in the group's defensive abilities and their capacity to knock down open 3-pointers.
Redick added that while the Lakers can't "become a championship team" in September, they "have to become one throughout the season," per Amick. This perspective underscores his focus on gradual development and cohesion.
The Lakers underwent a significant roster overhaul this summer, bidding farewell to Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton, Jaxson Hayes, Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, and James. In their place, the franchise welcomed Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, Collin Sexton, Ziaire Williams, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Kevon Looney, and Matisse Thybulle.
Sexton and Grimes are expected to share ballhandling duties behind Reaves and Dončić, as noted by Amick. Kessler will anchor the rim protection, while Williams and Thybulle will be relied upon for wing defense. The team's shooting depth was on display in an October 5 preseason opener against the Sacramento Kings, where a lineup resting some starters but featuring Dončić for 16 minutes shot 45 percent from beyond the arc on 44 attempts.
Redick now faces the task of determining the starting lineup alongside Reaves, Dončić, and Kessler before the regular-season opener on October 21 against Stephen Curry and the visiting Golden State Warriors.
Key Analysis
Redick's clarification highlights the strategic shift in the Lakers' roster construction, emphasizing depth and versatility over star power. The additions of Sexton, Grimes, and Kessler address specific needs, potentially positioning the team for a more balanced attack. As the season approaches, Redick's ability to integrate these new pieces will be crucial in the competitive Western Conference.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.