The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2024-25 NBA season with renewed optimism under new head coach JJ Redick. After a polarizing offseason filled with injuries and rumors, Redick has an opportunity to shape the future of the team. One of JJ Redick’s biggest challenges will be developing the Lakers’ younger talent, particularly second-year guard Jalen Hood-Schifino.
JJ Redick Must Not Repeat Darvin Ham’s Mistake With Prospect
During the 2023-24 season, Darvin Ham often favored veteran players, limiting the opportunities for young prospects like Hood-Schifino. Despite being the Lakers’ first-round draft pick, Hood-Schifino only appeared in 21 games. He averaged a meager 5.2 minutes per contest, unable to crack the regular rotation. Injuries to key players this season might give him a second chance. Redick must not repeat Ham’s mistake of neglecting such young talent.
Translating Success From The G League To The NBA
Hood-Schifino showed glimpses of his potential, notably scoring 10 points in just 11 minutes in one game. However, his limited playing time in the NBA hindered his development. He found more success in the G League with the South Bay Lakers, where he averaged 22 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.8 rebounds. His shooting percentages in the G League, including 43.2% from three-point range, highlight his offensive potential. Yet, these performances did not earn him a significant opportunity in the NBA.
The Lakers struggled with shooting last season, ranking 24th in three-pointers made and third-to-last in three-point field goal frequency. Hood-Schifino’s ability to stretch the floor from deep makes him an ideal candidate to help address this issue. Redick, known for his own elite shooting during his playing career, must see this potential in Hood-Schifino. The team’s lack of shooting should create opportunities for him to earn playing time this season, especially with injuries affecting key players like Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt.
Beyond his shooting, Hood-Schifino brings valuable defensive versatility. Standing at six-foot-five with a six-foot-10 wingspan, he has the size and athleticism to defend multiple positions. The Lakers are known for their strong defense anchored by Anthony Davis, and adding a capable, switchable defender like Hood-Schifino could enhance their defensive schemes. Redick needs to foster this defensive potential and develop Hood-Schifino into a two-way player.
Taking Advantage Of Opportunities
This season is crucial for Hood-Schifino’s development. With injuries to several players, there is an opening for him to secure a regular role in the rotation. Redick has expressed his willingness to embrace a youth movement, something that Ham hesitated to do. The Lakers’ front office prioritized the draft in the offseason, signaling a shift toward developing younger players to complement stars like LeBron James and AD.
Redick’s coaching philosophy will play a pivotal role in the future of Hood-Schifino. The young guard needs consistent playing time and confidence from his coach to thrive in the NBA. If JJ Redick can create an environment where Hood-Schifino feels trusted, he could unlock the potential that was overlooked last season.
For the Lakers, this season is about balancing short-term success with long-term development. LeBron and AD are still the team’s focal points, but young players like Hood-Schifino represent the future. Redick must avoid falling into the same trap as Ham, who leaned too heavily on veterans. By investing in Hood-Schifino, Redick has a chance to mold a future star.
The Last Word
This could be the year Hood-Schifino breaks out, provided Redick gives him the chance. Redick cannot afford to let another promising Lakers prospect slip through the cracks. He must learn from past mistakes and take full advantage of the opportunities this season brings.
