LA Lakers Season Preview
Re-signed: Max Christie, LeBron James
Additions: Coach JJ Redick, Christian Koloko (free agent)
Draft Picks: Dalton Knecht (No. 17 overall), Bronny James (No. 55 overall)
Departures: Coach Darvin Ham, Spencer Dinwiddie (to Mavericks), Taurean Prince (to Bucks)
Unsigned Free Agents: Harry Giles III, Skylar Mays
Last Season Recap
The 2023-24 Lakers season was defined by the continued dominance of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Davis reaffirmed his elite two-way ability, averaging 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, while LeBron, in his 21st season, led the team in scoring (25.7 ppg), assists (8.3 apg), and steals (1.3 spg), proving he’s still a top player. Both earned All-NBA honors.
However, the supporting cast struggled with inconsistency. Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell had their moments, but the Lakers leaned too heavily on LeBron and Davis in the postseason. This imbalance, combined with the depth of competition in the Western Conference, saw the Lakers exit the playoffs in the second round, eliminated by the Denver Nuggets for the second consecutive season.
Summer Summary
The most surprising change was the Lakers’ decision to part ways with head coach Darvin Ham. His departure came amid friction within the locker room and front office. In an unconventional move, the Lakers hired JJ Redick as head coach, despite his lack of coaching experience. While Redick has shown strong basketball IQ during his playing career and as an analyst, leading a veteran-laden team, especially with LeBron turning 40 this December, will be a major challenge.
The Lakers also made key roster additions, most notably drafting Dalton Knecht with the No. 17 pick, a versatile shooter, and adding Christian Koloko to help bolster their frontcourt depth. Additionally, the team signed Bronny James, with the hope of eventually seeing him and LeBron play together, making history as the first father-son duo in the NBA.
Player Spotlight: Bronny James
While Bronny James will likely spend most of his rookie year in the G League, his presence in the Lakers organization has drawn attention. As LeBron’s eldest son, the narrative of them playing together in the NBA is a focal point for the team and fans alike. Although Bronny isn’t expected to contribute immediately, his development will be closely watched with the goal of him joining his father on the court.
Season Outlook
The Lakers enter the 2024-25 season with optimism, hoping their capable role players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent can stay healthy and make key contributions. Improvements in 3-point shooting and defense will be essential to avoid the Play-In Tournament and remain competitive in the stacked Western Conference.
The big question will be how JJ Redick handles the pressure in his first coaching stint and how the team responds to the new leadership. If LeBron and Davis can stay healthy, and if the supporting cast steps up, the Lakers have the potential to make a deep playoff run again.
