Offseason
- Re-signing: Max Christie, LeBron James
- Additions: Coach JJ Redick, Christian Koloko
- Draft: Dalton Knecht (No. 17 pick), Bronny James (No. 55)
- Departures: Coach Darvin Ham, Spencer Dinwiddie (to Mavs), Taurean Prince (to Bucks)
- Unsigned Free Agents: Harry Giles III, Skylar Mays
Last season
Let’s get to the positives: LeBron James and Anthony Davis were superb. Davis reaffirmed his status in the league as a high-impact player on both ends of the floor (24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game). As for James, he brought bounce to his 21st season, leading the Lakers in scoring (25.7 ppg), assists (8.3 apg) and steals (1.3 apg). Both were All-NBA players.
The rest, however, were plagued with inconsistency and underperformance. Austin Reaves had moments, as did D’Angelo Russell. But once the playoffs began, the Lakers leaned too heavily on their two stars, which is never the recipe for postseason longevity, at least not in the loaded West. As a result, the Denver Nuggets sent the Lakers home for the second straight postseason.
Summer summary
The Lakers took the road lightly traveled in their search to replace Ham, who quickly fell out of favor both in the locker room and front office. At least he previously served as an assistant coach before getting the job. His replacement is a complete neophyte in every way.
JJ Redick played the game and, judging from his brief TV career, knows it, too. He just never coached it, and while that’s not unprecedented (Doc Rivers and Pat Riley, among others), he’s coming to a team that’s win-now given that James turns 40 in December. Redick will have to overcome his inexperience to succeed.
Spotlight on
Bronny James will likely spend much of his rookie season in the NBA G League and player development whenever he’s called up to the A-team. Second-round picks are rarely factors right away, especially on teams with postseason plans. But this is James’ oldest son and he’s here for a reason — to make history when he and his father first appear on the court together.
How far can the Lakers go?
This team has capable role players and is anxious to see what a healthy Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent can do for a change. Improvements in 3-point shooting and defense will be paramount for the Lakers to avoid the Play-In Tournament.
