The Los Angeles Lakers' 2023-24 NBA season was one of marked transitions and strategic shifts, showcasing the tactical vision of then-head coach Darvin Ham. Despite a rocky start with a 21-22 record over the first 43 games, Ham's experimentation with lineups eventually bore fruit, turning the Lakers into a formidable contender.
A Game-Changing Lineup
A pivotal moment came on January 21, when the Lakers faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers. For the first time, Ham started LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura together. This new combination immediately proved effective, as the Lakers emerged victorious. The win marked the beginning of a successful run for the new starting unit, which compiled an impressive 18-6 record while outscoring opponents by 5.5 points per 100 possessions. This success was a testament to Ham’s tactical acumen and his ability to find the right chemistry on the court.
The Crucial Roles of Key Players
LeBron James and Anthony Davis were at the heart of this strategic shift. Described by soon-to-be head coach JJ Redick as “one of the smartest players,” LeBron's role evolved to become both a facilitator and a scorer. "I think using him as a screener and finding ways to get him the ball in specific spots on the floor where he can be a facilitator and scorer, that's what I mean by being off the ball," Redick emphasized. Indeed, LeBron's basketball IQ was instrumental in the team's adjusted dynamics.
Anthony Davis, meanwhile, carried the additional defensive responsibility necessitated by starting Reaves and Russell together. Despite their offensive prowess, this duo introduced certain defensive vulnerabilities that needed to be addressed. Complementing them was Hachimura, who, while not primarily a perimeter defender, brought other strengths to the court, enabling the Lakers to maintain a competitive edge.
Looking Ahead to 2024-25
As the Lakers moved past the 2023-24 season, all eyes were on JJ Redick, who was announced as the head coach for the 2024-25 season. Redick, known for his analytical insights and deep understanding of the game, was expected to build on Ham's foundation while adding his unique spin to the team’s strategy.
The Lakers’ early schedule for the 2024-25 season is anticipated to be challenging, with matchups against the Timberwolves, the Suns (twice), the Kings, and the Cavaliers. Each game will serve as a crucial test for both the new coaching staff and the established lineup of James, Davis, Reaves, Russell, and Hachimura, who have been identified as the team's top five talents.
As the Lakers brace for these upcoming challenges, the narrative of the 2023-24 season remains a key chapter in their ongoing story. The strategic decisions made by Ham, particularly the introduction of a game-winning lineup and the leveraging of LeBron’s versatility, have set a precedent for success that Redick will look to build upon. The coming season holds the promise of further evolution and possibly redemption, hinging on this well-forged combination of talent and tactical sophistication.