The Lakers are entering a new chapter, preparing for their first full season without LeBron James on the roster in eight years.
During Thursday’s media availability, head coach JJ Redick may have unintentionally taken a pointed swipe at James. Redick told reporters that this season’s “group is probably the first time in my three years that I feel like the pieces actually fit together.”
It remains unclear whether Redick intended the comment as criticism of James. What is certain, however, is that the Lakers built this roster with Luka Doncic at the center of their plans, unlike previous seasons when the team’s personnel decisions were shaped around James.
Redick also made it clear that playing time will depend on whether players fulfill their assignments. “There is a very clear ask for you to be able to play. And if you don’t do those things, then you’re not gonna play,” he said. “That’s just the reality.”
Redick said he has already outlined his vision for the team in conversations with the players, adding that the response so far has been positive.
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James informed the Lakers in July that he would be leaving the team. He later joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year veteran minimum contract worth $7.95 million.
As the roster overhaul began, president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka moved on from veterans Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton, Jaxson Hayes and Luke Kennard.
Pelinka then secured a major piece for the rebuild by giving Austin Reaves a maximum contract extension before acquiring Walker Kessler from the Jazz in a sign-and-trade deal.
The Lakers continued reshaping the roster by adding Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton to strengthen the offense. Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams were signed to provide additional defensive help.
“We have high confidence in these guys that they’re going to buy into that,” Redick said. “It’s going to create naturally healthy competition, and everybody at some point will inevitably get a chance to impact our team and impact winning.”