When the Los Angeles Lakers hired JJ Redick as head coach last June, the outlook for the season was anything but optimistic. LeBron James was nearing 40, Anthony Davis had a well-known injury history, and the team had only managed to scrape by with 47 wins the year before.
With few external expectations, even Redick‘s bold goal of 50 wins and the third seed in the Western Conference seemed improbable. The Lakers‘ struggles in the prior season had led many to believe that another year of mediocrity was on the horizon.
Fast forward to last week, and Redick’s bold vision was realized. The Lakers secured 50 wins, their highest total since the 2019-2020 season, and clinched the third seed in the West.
“It’s a cool moment to share,” said Redick, acknowledging the achievement.
This season has truly exceeded expectations, particularly when compared to other unexpected stories around the league, such as the Cleveland Cavaliers‘ rise in the East and the Oklahoma City Thunder‘s ascent to the top of the West.
Midseason shakeups propel the Lakers into contention
While the Lakers’ season had its challenges, the turning point came in midseason trades that reshaped the roster. In February, the Lakers made headlines with a bold move, acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Davis and Max Christie. The trade was met with mixed reactions, as the Lakers paid a steep price for a star whose immediate impact was uncertain.
However, the move paid off. With Doncic in the fold, the Lakers found their rhythm. Austin Reaves elevated his game, averaging 22.2 points per game after the All-Star break. The team’s defense also stepped up, led by versatile defenders like Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Dorian Finney-Smith, who helped hold opponents to 45.7% shooting in the second half of the season.
The Lakers were a different team with Doncic. His unique playstyle, which relies on pick-and-rolls and isolation plays, was seamlessly integrated into the offense. Over 18-10 in games with Doncic in the lineup, the Lakers demonstrated their ability to adapt to their new star. As they head into the playoffs, the team is ready to challenge for a championship-something unthinkable just months ago.
Now, as the Lakers prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs, their sights are set on a much bigger prize: the NBA Championship. The team’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic, two of the best closers in the league, the Lakers are primed to make a deep postseason run.
Redick’s approach, rooted in organization, consistency, and a focus on the details, has completely reshaped the culture in L.A. Gone are the days of uncertainty about roles and expectations. Now, the Lakers are a well-oiled machine, both on offense and defense, poised for a strong playoff push. If they continue executing Redick’s system with precision, the Lakers will be a tough out for any team in the postseason.
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