Lakers: JJ Redick Appreciates The Starting Lineup’s Size & Versatility
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick recently confirmed that the team will revert to its most successful starting lineup from the 2023-24 season.
This lineup includes LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, a group that posted a 23-10 record when starting together last season.
Former coach Darvin Ham experimented with various combinations, but eventually settled on this lineup during the second half of the season, when the Lakers needed a strong push. From January 1 onward, the group had a net rating of +5.2 and performed efficiently on both offense and defense.
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Redick highlighted why he values this particular lineup, noting their impressive record and strong defense. “I like the size, especially with Rui, LeBron, and AD in the frontcourt, and Austin is a slightly above-average-sized two-guard,” Redick said.
He emphasized the lineup’s versatility, with multiple players capable of handling the ball. Redick also praised Reaves for his adaptability and plans to expand the skill sets of all his players, making them more dynamic and harder to defend.
Under Redick, there seems to be a greater emphasis on size and versatility compared to Ham’s guard-focused approach, which prioritized fast play, often at the expense of defense. If Redick sticks with this strategy, the Lakers could find success earlier in the season and avoid having to make a late push like they did last year.