JJ Redick’s arrival as the Los Angeles Lakers‘ head coach has already sparked noticeable changes in the team’s approach to player development. Redick took over after the Lakers parted ways with Darvin Ham. He has the tall task of making the Lakers competitive while introducing a fresh development system. Redick has a lack of coaching experience at the professional level. Despite this, his impact is already being felt as the Lakers gear up for the new season.
JJ Redick’s Immediate Impact on the Los Angeles Lakers
According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, some Lakers players are already noticing the influence of Redick’s methods as they ramp up their preparation for training camp. Woike noted,
“Those workouts are the first in the formalized relationship between JJ Redick, his staff, and the players, and the first impression might offer some hints as to how the new coach will operate. Workouts have featured more live basketball — one on one and three on three — than past summers when the focus was more on individual, noncompetitive work.”
This shift from noncompetitive, individual workouts to more dynamic, live basketball scenarios marks a significant change in the Lakers‘ training philosophy. Under the previous regime, the emphasis was on isolated skill development. This involved players working individually on specific aspects of their game. This approach has its merits, particularly in honing particular skills. However, it lacks the intensity and decision-making pressure that live basketball situations provide.
Benefits of This New Regimen
One-on-one and three-on-three live workouts offer several advantages that can lead to improved performance on the court. The benefits can be transformative for Redick’s tenure on the Lakers.
First, these formats allow players to simulate game-like situations. They must make quick decisions under pressure. In a real game, the ability to read and react to defenders, find open teammates, and make split-second choices often determines success. Live workouts help players develop these critical skills in a controlled yet competitive environment.
Moreover, live basketball scenarios foster better conditioning and endurance. When players engage in one-on-one or three-on-three matches, they experience the physical demands of a game. These include the constant movement, quick changes in direction, and high-intensity bursts. This level of physical exertion is difficult to replicate in noncompetitive, individual workouts. These make live sessions invaluable for preparing players for the rigors of an NBA season.
Building Team Chemistry and Competitive Edge
Another benefit of these live workouts is the opportunity for players to build chemistry and understanding with their teammates. In smaller group settings like three-on-three, players must communicate, set screens, and work together to create scoring opportunities. This teamwork aspect is crucial in building a cohesive unit that can execute effectively during actual games. Redick’s emphasis on these drills suggests he values chemistry and in-game awareness as much as individual skills for the Lakers.
Furthermore, live workouts expose players to real defensive challenges. In noncompetitive drills, defenders may be passive or absent. Live situations force players to navigate through active defense. This helps players refine their offensive moves, improve their ability to read defenses, and adapt their strategies based on the opposition’s actions. As a result, players become more versatile and effective when facing different defensive schemes in real games.
Redick’s approach also encourages competitiveness among the players. The competitive nature of one-on-one and three-on-three games naturally pushes players to elevate their intensity and focus. This competitive edge is essential for success in the NBA, where every possession counts, and the margin for error is slim. By instilling this mindset during workouts, Redick is preparing the Lakers for the high-stakes moments they will encounter throughout the season.
The Last Word
In summary, JJ Redick’s introduction of more live basketball drills into the Lakers’ training regimen represents a significant shift from the past. These one-on-one and three-on-three workouts not only improve players’ decision-making, conditioning, and teamwork but also foster a competitive spirit essential for success. As the Lakers continue to adjust to Redick’s new system, the early signs suggest that this approach could pay dividends as the team looks to make a deep playoff run. Also, he has a experienced backroom to call on if he needs more traditional approaches in other areas.
