Before kicking off their training camp, the Los Angeles Lakers have already started laying down the foundation for a season built on unity and shared vision. Newly-appointed head coach, JJ Redick, set the tone by organizing a significant team gathering in Beverly Hills. This event aimed to foster camaraderie and align the team’s goals for the upcoming season.
Redick and his coaching staff began the first practice with an extensive presentation emphasizing team values and ground rules crucial for success. This session highlighted the team's commitment to a cohesive and disciplined approach as they prepare to build on past achievements.
The Lakers are bringing back a strong core that advanced to the conference finals two seasons ago, featuring stars such as LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, D'Angelo Russell, and Rui Hachimura. Redick has announced his intention to retain this formidable starting lineup, underlining stability and familiarity as key components of his strategy. Additionally, Redick plans to operate with a nine-man rotation, ensuring depth and flexibility throughout the grueling NBA season.
"It was kind of the first time that we all really got together as a team in one setting," noted Max Christie, highlighting the importance of the Beverly Hills gathering in uniting the squad.
Among the players, Jarred Vanderbilt is in the recovery phase from offseason procedures on both feet, and Cam Reddish experienced soreness that kept him out of the 5-on-5 segment of practice. Despite these setbacks, the team remains optimistic.
Emphasis on Christie’s Development
A notable development for the Lakers is the re-signing of Max Christie to a four-year, $32 million contract. This move underscores the franchise's confidence in his potential. Christie has spent the last two months earning the coaching staff's trust, which head coach JJ Redick openly acknowledged. "Christie is a guy who's earned our coaching staff's trust over the last two months," Redick stated.
LeBron James also praised Christie’s progress and value to the team. "I think Max will be a big part of our rotation. He's gotten better and better and I'm happy we were able to bring him back in the summertime. I look forward to a bright season from him," he remarked. Christie's dedication and performance have not gone unnoticed, suggesting that he could play a critical role in the Lakers' quest for success this season.
In reflecting on his journey and aspirations, Christie shared, "I think for me it's kind of just proving myself again. I haven't proven too much as a player in this league. I've had spurts and sporadic moments where I've been really good, but I want to put a whole season together. Hopefully, I get the opportunity to do that this year."
Focused and Grounded Approach
The Lakers are taking a measured approach to the season, emphasizing hard work and daily commitment over lofty expectations. LeBron James captured this sentiment, saying, "I don't have any expectations. And that's unfair to put any expectations on us right now. The only thing that we can count on each other is how we come to practice and come to work every day."
This grounded approach reflects the mentality Redick and his coaching staff are instilling within the team. By focusing on consistent effort and adherence to core values, the Lakers are aiming to build a resilient and competitive squad capable of navigating the highs and lows of the NBA season.
As the Lakers embark on this new chapter under JJ Redick's leadership, the balance of retaining a talented core, integrating promising players like Christie, and maintaining a disciplined, no-expectations mindset could prove vital. The groundwork laid in Beverly Hills and the comprehensive planning in practice sessions signal a team ready to tackle the upcoming season with unity and purpose.