In a remarkable turn of events that has caught the NBA by storm, the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as one of the Western Conference’s most formidable forces under the unlikely leadership of rookie head coach JJ Redick. With a commanding 9-4 record and riding a five-game winning streak, the Lakers’ transformation has become the talk of the league.
Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA player turned analyst, hasn’t held back his praise for the Lakers’ new coach. The team’s success isn’t just turning heads—it’s challenging conventional wisdom about NBA coaching prerequisites.
The Unconventional Path To Success
Redick’s journey from sharpshooting guard to NBA head coach raised eyebrows initially. Critics pointed to his limited coaching experience—restricted to his son’s youth team—and whispered about possible favoritism due to his connection with LeBron James. But the self-proclaimed “basketball sicko” has silenced doubters with results.
Redick describes his coaching philosophy as “someone who’s obsessed with basketball, someone who’s willing to get into the weeds all the time.” This obsession is evident as reports surfaced of him reviewing game tape at a car wash, a dedication that is becoming legendary among both players and fans.
Bold Moves Are Paying Off
One of Redick’s most impactful decisions has been moving D’Angelo Russell to the bench, a choice that’s proved masterful. The numbers tell the story:
- Russell’s field goal percentage jumped from 37.5% to 46%.
- Three-point shooting improved from 29.2% to 40%.
- The second unit gained a reliable scorer and playmaker.
Lou Williams, another NBA veteran, praises this gutsy move: “The DLo thing, I appreciate it. He attempted to address that issue at an early stage… We’re gonna play hard around here.”
Star Power Unleashed
Under Redick’s guidance, the Lakers’ stars have reached new heights. Anthony Davis is putting up MVP-worthy numbers, averaging 31.1 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. LeBron James continues to defy age, achieving a career first with four consecutive triple-doubles.
The team’s success extends beyond individual achievements. For the first time since Phil Jackson’s era in 2010, the Lakers started 3-0, signaling a return to excellence that fans have long awaited.
A New Blueprint For NBA Coaching?
Redick’s success might be changing how teams think about coaching hires. His recent playing experience and deep understanding of modern NBA dynamics have proved valuable assets. As Cam Reddish notes, “He’s not a yeller, but he’s going to hold everyone accountable… He wants to win everything.”
The contrast with veteran coach Doc Rivers’ struggling Bucks (4-9 start) raises intriguing questions about the value of traditional coaching experience versus fresh perspectives and player-centric approaches.
Looking Ahead
With the Lakers sitting third in the Western Conference, Redick’s “sicko” approach to basketball seems to be exactly what the team needed. Redick’s obsessive attention to detail and willingness to make bold decisions have created a winning formula that could serve as a template for future NBA coaching hires.
As the season progresses, one thing becomes clear: the Lakers’ decision to trust in Redick’s vision, despite his inexperience, might be the most important move they’ve made in years. Finding new paths to success while honoring their winning tradition is exactly what the Lakers, a franchise with 17 championships, need.
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