The Los Angeles Lakers have experienced a rollercoaster of a season under head coach Darvin Ham during the 2023-24 NBA season. With a record of 21-22 in their first 43 games, it was evident that the Lakers were searching for the right combination to spark a turnaround. The pivotal change came in their 44th game against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 21.
In a bold move, Ham introduced a new starting lineup featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura. This strategic adjustment marked the first time this particular group had started together, and the results were immediate and impressive. The Lakers secured a victory over the Trail Blazers, and this new unit went on to compile an 18-6 record, outscoring opponents by 5.5 points per 100 possessions.
While the new starting five highlighted the team's top talents, it also introduced some challenges, particularly on the defensive end. Starting Reaves and Russell together brought about defensive vulnerabilities, placing additional pressure on Anthony Davis to anchor the team's defense. Hachimura, who is not primarily known for his perimeter defense, had to adapt to a more demanding role.
A Tactical Shift
JJ Redick, announced as the coach for the 2024-25 season, has underscored the importance of leveraging LeBron James' versatility in his strategy. "LeBron is one of the smartest players, and I think using him as a screener and finding ways to get him the ball in specific spots on the floor where he can be a facilitator and scorer, that's what I mean by being off the ball," Redick stated, highlighting James' multifaceted skill set.
Redick's emphasis on James' role off the ball reflects a tactical shift that could shape the Lakers' gameplay in the coming seasons. By exploiting James' ability to both facilitate and score, the Lakers aim to create a more dynamic and unpredictable offensive scheme.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The upcoming 2024-25 season schedule presents early challenges for the Lakers. They face matchups against formidable teams including the Timberwolves, the Suns twice, the Kings, and the Cavaliers. Each game will require the Lakers to maintain their newfound cohesion and adaptability to secure victories against these strong opponents.
The integration of their top talents—James, Davis, Reaves, Russell, and Hachimura—will be crucial to sustaining their success. The defensive pressure on Davis, alongside the responsibilities placed on Reaves and Russell, will test the team's resilience and depth. Hachimura's role, though not traditionally defensive, will need to evolve to support the Lakers' overall strategy.
As the Lakers transition into the Redick era, the focus will be on harnessing their key players' strengths while mitigating any defensive shortcomings. The blend of experienced leadership from James and Davis, combined with the emerging talents of Reaves, Russell, and Hachimura, sets the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
The Los Angeles Lakers' journey through the 2023-24 season has been one of adaptation and discovery. With Ham's late-season adjustments and Redick's upcoming leadership, the franchise looks poised to refine their approach and contend with the NBA's elite. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these strategies unfold and whether they can propel the Lakers back into championship contention.