Despite a rough season last year, the Lakers have shown flashes of what they’re capable of, especially when healthy. With a new head coach in JJ Redick and key players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent fully available, there’s hope for a better run this time around.
The challenge, of course, is the reliance on LeBron James, who is entering his 22nd season at will turn 40 in two months, and Anthony Davis, who has struggled with injuries in the past (though not lately). The Lakers aren’t like a Boston or Spoelstra-coached Miami team that can easily compensate for absences – they need all hands on deck for most of the season, along with a bit of luck. Redick, a first-time head coach, adds an element of unpredictability, but his fresh perspective and approach could be just what this team needs to manage rotations better and push the right buttons.
LeBron himself acknowledged the team’s lack of major moves, saying, “It takes two to tango,” when discussing their offseason attempts. But with a core that went 20-10 down the stretch last season, combined with Redick’s innovative coaching, the Lakers might just have what it takes to surpass their 47 wins from last season – if everything falls into place.
