As the NBA gears up for a fresh season, ESPN’s Shams Charania has stirred the pot with sharp insights into the Lakers’ coaching shakeup, praising new head coach JJ Redick while taking a pointed jab at former coach Darvin Ham. Charania, known for his candid takes, highlighted three essential qualities Redick brings to the table—“Details, Accountability, and Structure”—attributes he claims were missing under Ham, whose rotating lineups and restrictive minutes for LeBron left the Lakers struggling with a 25-25 record halfway through last season.
In Netflix’s recent docuseries Starting 5, LeBron James is visibly frustrated with Ham’s decision to limit his minutes, a choice symbolic of what some saw as a lack of cohesive strategy. Redick, on the other hand, has taken a fresh approach, focusing on player development rather than major offseason roster changes. This focus has garnered support from players like Austin Reaves, who sees “a great start” in Redick’s foundation for the team. Charania’s endorsement of Redick’s disciplined style suggests the Lakers are ready to rebuild on a solid foundation—just in time for a highly competitive season in the Western Conference.
Though Redick’s start hasn’t been flawless—the Lakers lost two of three preseason games, including a close one to the Timberwolves where a final shot from Dalton Knecht missed—his approach has received backing from his team. With players like Reaves rallying behind Redick’s vision, and LeBron potentially thriving under a coach emphasizing accountability, the Lakers could be primed for a strong season. Now, the question remains: Will Redick’s structure and strategy bring the Lakers back to championship form? The West will be watching.
