Looking Back: The 2023-24 Lakers Season
The Los Angeles Lakers experienced a rollercoaster during the 2023-24 NBA season, under the stewardship of head coach Darvin Ham. Starting the season with a 21-22 record through their first 43 games, the Lakers were caught in a wave of inconsistency and tactical experimentation.
January 21 marked a pivotal turning point. In their 44th game, Ham orchestrated a new starting lineup against the Portland Trail Blazers, introducing LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura as the starting five for the first time. The Lakers triumphed, marking the beginning of a prosperous period for the team.
The Impact of the New Lineup
The revamped starting lineup proved to be a masterstroke. Over the ensuing games, this unit compiled an impressive 18-6 record, outscoring opponents by 5.5 points per 100 possessions. The synergy between the players and the strategic placement of LeBron James not only strengthened the offensive dynamism but also established a more cohesive defense, despite a few vulnerabilities.
Starting Reaves and Russell together was a tactical decision that came with its set of challenges. While both players brought substantial offensive firepower, their combined presence on the court introduced defensive vulnerabilities. This necessitated a greater defensive workload for Anthony Davis, putting pressure on him to fortify the team's back line. Additionally, Rui Hachimura, though not primarily a perimeter defender, had to adapt to this new role within the scheme.
A Glimpse of the Future
As the Lakers moved towards the end of the season, an announcement came that surprised many but excited fans nonetheless. JJ Redick was named the head coach for the 2024-25 season. Known for his sharp basketball intellect and extensive experience as a player, Redick’s appointment heralds a new era for the Lakers. He has already begun to articulate his vision for the team, emphasizing a strategic utilization of LeBron James’ multifaceted skillset.
"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, shedding light on his planned approach to maximizing James' effectiveness on the court.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The Lakers’ early schedule for the 2024-25 season does not offer any respite. They will face formidable opponents such as the Timberwolves, the Suns (twice), the Kings, and the Cavaliers. Each of these matchups will test Redick's early strategies and the team's ability to adapt to new defensive and offensive schemes.
The spotlight will be on how the Lakers handle defensive responsibilities, especially with the combination of Reaves and Russell in the backcourt. With Anthony Davis carrying additional defensive burdens and Hachimura adjusting to more significant perimeter defense duties, there will undoubtedly be growing pains. However, the potential for high-reward basketball is evident if the new lineup can gel effectively.
Conclusion
The 2023-24 season was one of transformation and growth for the Los Angeles Lakers. Under Darvin Ham’s guidance, a crucial tactical shift jolted the team into winning form. Looking ahead, the Lakers now stand at the threshold of a new chapter with JJ Redick at the helm. While challenges loom on the horizon, the pieces are in place for a compelling and competitive season. Basketball aficionados will keenly follow how LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the rest of the squad navigate their path under their new coach.