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Not only LeBron James or Anthony Davis: JJ Redick names crucial player for the Lakers

Lakers head coach JJ Redick faces the challenge of improving a nearly identical team with a focus on the health of Jarred Vanderbilt, the offensive transformation of Anthony Davis and the figure of LeBron James.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots the ball over JJ Redick #4 of the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on November 27, 2019.
© Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesLeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots the ball over JJ Redick #4 of the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on November 27, 2019.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has a unique challenge ahead of him in the 2024-25 season. The team’s roster has remained largely unchanged in the offseason, meaning Redick and his coaching staff are the only significant difference from last season.

While better health for players like Jarred Vanderbilt or Gabe Vincent might change a few things, and a mid- to late-season trade is always possible, right now, the team looks almost identical to last year’s. This means Redick needs to prove that coaching was the problem for LeBron James‘ Lakers to succeed.

Redick is hopeful that Vanderbilt, who missed much of last season due to injuries, can be a key piece of the team. The new head coach has praised Vanderbilt’s energy and defense, and believes he can be an “energy changer” for the team. Redick will have to get creative to make Vanderbilt an effective player on the offensive end of the court, but his defense could make a big difference for the Lakers.

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Redick looks to make Anthony Davis the center of the Lakers’ offense

Redick has also talked about making Anthony Davis the center of the team’s offense. This would mean Davis would operate more with the ball and create for his teammates with more player movement. Davis is coming off his best season with the Lakers, and taking the burden off LeBron James will only be possible if he operates at the highest level.

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JJ Redick is seen prior to Game Two of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden on June 09, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

JJ Redick is seen prior to Game Two of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden on June 09, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Redick and Davis have had conversations about the big star’s role on the team, and they’re both on the same page. If Redick can get the best out of Davis, the Lakers could have a much more dangerous offense next season.

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