JJ Redick has taken the helm as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, infusing the team with a fresh perspective and a hint of optimism as the new NBA season gets underway. Redick, known for his sharp shooting in his playing days, is now trying to instill a similar offensive vitality in his squad. With just two regular season games under their belt, the Lakers are already showing signs of a new direction under Redick's watchful eye.
Despite a setback in a recent outing against the Golden State Warriors, where they lost a preseason game on October 15, there remain several positive takeaways. The Lakers are actively trying to adapt to a new style of play, as demonstrated by their three-point attempts and pivotal in-game adjustments.
A New Offensive Outlook
One of the most notable changes this season is the Lakers' approach to their three-point game. Averaging 28.5 attempts per game, they are shooting fewer three-pointers compared to last season's average. However, Redick is optimistic about this aspect of the Lakers' game evolving. "If you look at it, for us and our group to take 40 3s in a game, that's promising," Redick stated. He added, "It's promising. We can get it up to 50, hopefully, but 40 is good."
These statements from Redick outline his vision for the Lakers to increase their perimeter shooting, aiming to boost their attempts by five or six more per game. His comments reflect a broader strategy in revitalizing the Lakers' offense, making it more dynamic and unpredictable.
Inside Game and Playmaking
While focusing on long-range shots is a priority, the Lakers have not neglected their inside game, a staple of their early-season performances. In a recent game against Minnesota, the Lakers outscored their opponents by a remarkable 32 points in the paint, showcasing their strength and versatility near the basket. This interior dominance is further complemented by their ability to get to the foul line, having earned 64 trips in just two games.
Moreover, the Lakers' emphasis on movement and playmaking is evident. Last season, the team was criticized for its lack of offensive movement—no team moved less, according to NBA.com's tracking data. This season, the change is palpable. The Lakers have already scored 37 points off cuts, averaging 18.5 points per game from such plays. Their passing initiative also saw a significant uptick, with 334 passes recorded in their season opener, a substantial increase from the average of 267.5 passes per game last season.
Assists and Team Chemistry
The integration of these elements has resulted in a better team chemistry. In their game against Phoenix, the Lakers showcased their improved collaboration on the court, assisting on 33 of their 40 field goals. This high level of sharing the ball is a testament to the trust and synergy developing within the roster, hallmarks of a team with potential for high-level basketball.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the Lakers are on a promising path, challenges remain. Finding the perfect balance in their offensive scheme and finally overcoming opponents like the Warriors require continued refinement of their approach and execution. The road ahead is fraught with such hurdles, but as Redick’s strategies take root, the Lakers are poised to become a more formidable force. His emphasis on increasing their three-point attempts and enhancing movement without sacrificing their strong inside game is set to be the fulcrum of their evolution this season.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how JJ Redick's Lakers adapt and grow. The commitment to a balanced attack, blending a sharper perimeter game with powerful inside play, suggests a new horizon for a team looking to reestablish its dominance in the league.