Four wins. Four losses. 116 points per game. 46.8% of field goals made. And “a number” of broken clipboards. These are just some of the early statistics from JJ Redick’s first month as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, with the last one being an unusual but telling indicator of Redick’s coaching style, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
JJ Redick took over as head coach of the Lakers in June, stepping into the role after Darvin Ham’s tenure ended following a disappointing first-round exit in the 2023-24 playoffs.
The decision to hire Redick, a former player and popular NBA analyst, was met with skepticism by many who questioned whether he could successfully make the jump from broadcasting to coaching.
However, in his first few weeks leading the team, Redick has already made his mark, showcasing both his passion and his demand for excellence.
Charania, speaking on SportsCenter, described Redick’s impact so far: “Anytime you have a coach that puts in as much as he does, on and off the floor, you know it’s palpable. How much he wants to win, how passionate he is about the game. … I’m told there have been a number of clipboards broken over the first month of JJ Redick as head coach of the Lakers. He’s supremely passionate and that’s palpable within the roster about how badly he wants to win. He’s a perfectionist.”
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Redick’s perfectionism has been evident both in practices and on the sidelines during games. His fiery approach—exemplified by those broken clipboards—speaks to his intensity and desire to bring out the best in his players. Charania also noted that Redick has been highly “detail-oriented” in his coaching, emphasizing discipline and accountability, which have been well-received by the players despite the team’s mixed results early in the season.
Redick has not hesitated to hold his players accountable, pushing them to execute at a high level and focusing on the finer points of the game.
His attention to detail is seen as a refreshing change for the Lakers, especially after last season’s struggles, where inconsistencies plagued their performance. Players have reportedly responded well to Redick’s approach, with many appreciating his passion for the game and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team improve.
Despite the challenges, there are positive signs that the Lakers are buying into Redick’s system. The Lakers are currently 4-4, showing glimpses of the offensive firepower that they are capable of.
Averaging 116 points per game and shooting 46.8% from the field, the team has had no trouble putting points on the board. However, the defensive side of the ball remains an area of concern. Los Angeles ranks 27th in defensive efficiency, an unexpected position given that they have one of the league’s premier defenders in Anthony Davis.
Redick has acknowledged the defensive issues and has made it a priority to tighten up the team’s performance on that end of the court.
The Lakers’ struggles on defense have been a key reason for their inconsistent start, and Redick knows that addressing these issues will be critical if they are to become serious contenders in the Western Conference. With Anthony Davis anchoring the defense, the potential is there, but it will require a collective effort and increased discipline—both of which Redick has been pushing for.
One bright spot in Redick’s first month has been his ability to connect with the media and fans. Redick, known for his articulate and candid analysis as a broadcaster, has used those same skills to engage with reporters and the fanbase.
He’s been open about the challenges the team faces and his commitment to turning things around. The early returns on the Lakers’ four-year investment in the former podcaster have been promising, even amid the team’s uneven start.
The next test for Redick and the Lakers will be their upcoming matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night. It will be an opportunity for the Lakers to showcase the improvements they have been working on, particularly on defense, and to demonstrate that they are moving in the right direction under Redick’s leadership.
With Redick’s passion and attention to detail driving the team, Lakers fans are hopeful that the growing pains of these early weeks will soon translate into consistent success on the court.
For Redick, the journey is just beginning. As he continues to adjust to his role as a head coach, one thing is clear: his desire to win is as strong as ever, and he will not shy away from breaking a clipboard or two if it means getting the best out of his players.
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