The Los Angeles Lakers have kicked off JJ Redick’s NBA head coaching era in impressive fashion, opening the season with three straight wins. Much of that success is thanks to Anthony Davis, whose dominant form has been a game-changer. Rui Hachimura recently credited Redick for bringing out the best in Davis, who’s been a standout in all three games.
Davis has posted over 30 points in each of the Lakers’ first three wins, a testament to Redick’s approach, as the new head coach has emphasized making Davis a central figure in the offense.
After their latest win over the Sacramento Kings, Hachimura pointed out how Redick’s system has empowered Davis to be more assertive on the court. “I think it’s the same, but he’s more aggressive now,” Hachimura said.
“We have the system now to kind of play and build around him and LeBron. We understand we have more chemistry now, and he’s great at passing too, so it’s hard for teams to guard. We play together,” Hachimura added.
Anthony Davis #3 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a 110-103 Lakers win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Harry How/Getty Images
Hachimura says team’s mindset has shifted
Hachimura also highlighted a significant shift in the team’s mindset compared to last season. “I told you guys before the season started, last year we were kind of messing around, like you guys saw that,” Hachimura said.
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“Just the lineup, everything, injuries, all that. We didn’t have the mindset of, ‘OK, let’s take No. 1 in the West.’” He added, “We didn’t have that mindset, but this year, I think we have that since we started training camp.”
Davis emphasizes the Lakers’ new identity
Following the Kings game, Davis underscored the team’s evolved identity. “I like where our team is,” Davis said. “Obviously there’s a lot that we can clean up on both ends of the floor, but we’ll definitely take those wins. I’d rather be able to clean up things with a win over a loss.”
“It’s been a tough three games, obviously with three familiar teams from the West,” Davis continued. “We’ve been able to hold our own and put the league on notice that we’re a different team.”
