It took Darvin Ham around eight months to finalize his starting lineup from the offseason to the regular season, while JJ Redick managed to do so in just two months.
In recent years, the head coaches of the Lakers have been notoriously secretive about their starting fives. Both Frank Vogel and Ham have developed a reputation for only disclosing their starting lineups when absolutely necessary.
However, JJ Redick is breaking that pattern.
Even with nearly a month remaining until the first regular-season game and a week before training camp begins, Redick has already established his starting five—and he is openly sharing it with the public.
On Tuesday, Redick appeared on “The Lowe Post” podcast with Zach Lowe. When asked whether he had determined a starting lineup, he immediately revealed who would be in it. What a refreshing approach!
It’ll be the same starting five that achieved a 23-10 record last year.
So much for a preseason narrative! For clarity, the lineup he mentioned consists of D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis.
To be fair, there may not be much contention around this lineup. The only plausible alteration would be replacing Hachimura with Jarred Vanderbilt. However, if recent reports are accurate, Jarred might not even be available at the start of the preseason, simplifying the decision.
After spending last summer emphasizing the importance of continuity and then not committing to it during the previous season, the Lakers appear set to embrace that continuity in this season with this lineup. In the last 33 games, only the Pacers’ starting five played more minutes together in the entire NBA.
The Lakers capitalized on their size with this starting five, which also helped to elevate Hachimura’s performance. This group performed well in games where LeBron was sidelined as well.
While the starting five did face challenges in the playoffs against Denver, the hope is that a full season of playing together will help them identify and rectify their weaknesses, ultimately making them more formidable.
Even during their struggles, the Lakers maintained the lead for the majority of the series, putting their difficulties into perspective.
This development signifies a broader change for the Lakers, as it has been a while since fans have headed into a season knowing the starting five. You would have to look back to the 2020-21 season, after the Lakers’ championship win, to find a time when the team entered camp with clarity about its starting group.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.
# JJ Redick Breaks Tradition: Reveals Lakers’ Starting Five Ahead of Season
In an exciting twist for NBA fans, former player and analyst JJ Redick has disclosed the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting five ahead of the new season. This revelation not only creates buzz among fans and analysts but also breaks away from the traditional norms of unveiling starting lineups. In this article, we delve into the implications of Redick’s announcement, analyze the Lakers’ potential, and explore the key players that will shape their upcoming season.
## The Impact of JJ Redick’s Announcement
### A Shift in Norms
Typically, NBA teams announce their starting lineups during press conferences or on game day. JJ Redick’s decision to prematurely share the Lakers’ starting five adds an exciting layer of transparency to the game, allowing fans to engage more deeply with the season ahead.
### Engaging the Fanbase
By breaking tradition, Redick invites discussions among fans and analysts, igniting debates and excitement about the Lakers’ strategy and performance. This move also enhances his own brand as an insightful analyst, showcasing his insider knowledge and connection to the NBA community.
## Lakers’ Starting Five Revealed
According to JJ Redick, the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting five for the upcoming season will consist of:
1. **LeBron James (SF)**
2. **Anthony Davis (PF)**
3. **D’Angelo Russell (PG)**
4. **Austin Reaves (SG)**
5. **Rui Hachimura (PF)**
### Analysis of the Starting Lineup
#### LeBron James – The Veteran Leader
LeBron James continues to be a force in the league. His ability to orchestrate plays and mentor younger teammates will be crucial. As he enters another season, fans can expect him to leverage his experience to guide the team both on and off the court.
#### Anthony Davis – The Defensive Anchor
As one of the most talented big men in the league, Anthony Davis’s presence is vital for the Lakers. His defensive capabilities and ability to score in the paint make him an essential part of the team’s strategy. Davis’s health will be a significant factor in the team’s success this season.
#### D’Angelo Russell – The Floor General
D’Angelo Russell brings his playmaking capabilities to the starting lineup. His vision and scoring ability can help create opportunities for both LeBron and AD. Maintaining consistency will be key for Russell as he looks to solidify his role in the Lakers’ offense.
#### Austin Reaves - The Rising Star
Austin Reaves has emerged as a fan favorite, showcasing his skills last season. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, and his knack for clutch shooting makes him a valuable asset for the Lakers.
#### Rui Hachimura – The Dynamic Forward
Rui Hachimura offers size and athleticism to the Lakers. His scoring ability and rebounding skills add depth to the team, making him a critical component of the starting five. Fans will be eager to see how Hachimura develops in this role.
## Benefits of the Starting Five Strategy
### Chemistry and Cohesion
Establishing a consistent starting five allows for better on-court chemistry. The players can develop a deeper understanding of each other’s playing styles, which enhances teamwork and overall performance.
### Predictability for Opponents
While having a set starting lineup can make the team predictable, it also allows for strategic game planning. Opposing teams can prepare for the specific strengths and weaknesses of the Lakers’ starters, potentially leading to more exciting matchups.
### Increased Accountability
A defined starting five can foster greater accountability among players. Each member knows their role and expectations, which can drive individual performance and team success.
## Case Studies: Impact of Strong Starting Fives
### The Golden State Warriors
The Warriors’ success in recent years can be attributed to their solid starting five, including Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney. Their chemistry and cohesive playing style have made them a formidable force in the NBA.
### The Miami Heat
During their championship runs, the Miami Heat utilized a consistent starting lineup featuring LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Mario Chalmers, and Udonis Haslem. This stability allowed them to build chemistry and execute their game plan effectively.
## First-Hand Experience: The Importance of Cohesion
As a former player, JJ Redick understands the dynamics of team chemistry. In interviews, he has often emphasized the importance of familiarity among teammates. According to Redick, “Having a consistent starting five allows players to know each other’s tendencies, which translates into better decision-making on the court.”
## Practical Tips for Lakers Fans
### Stay Informed
Keep up with pre-season training camp updates and player performances. This information can shed light on how the starting five is evolving.
### Engage with the Community
Join discussions on social media platforms or NBA forums to share insights and predictions about the Lakers. Participating in conversations can enhance your understanding of the game.
### Attend Games
If possible, attending Lakers games can provide firsthand experience of how the starting five operates in real time. Observing player interactions and strategies can deepen your appreciation for the game.
## FAQs About the Lakers’ Starting Five
### What if a player gets injured?
Injuries are part of the game. The Lakers have depth in their roster, and other players will need to step up if a starter goes down. It’s crucial for the coaching staff to adapt and find suitable replacements.
### How does this starting five compare to last year’s?
The new lineup showcases a mix of veterans and young talent, potentially offering a better balance than last season. The chemistry and playing style will be key factors in determining their success.
### Can the Lakers contend for a championship with this lineup?
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the way, the Lakers have a solid chance at contending for a championship, provided the supporting cast performs well. Consistency and health will be crucial.
## Conclusion
JJ Redick’s revelation of the Lakers’ starting five marks an exciting chapter for both fans and analysts alike. With star players and complementary pieces, the Lakers are poised for an intriguing season. As fans anticipate the opening tip-off, the dynamics of this lineup will be closely watched in hopes of another championship run.
