There were plenty of positives to take away from JJ Redick’s first season as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Notably, Redick had the Lakers flowing well on offense, but NBA analyst Mo Dakhil stated on The Zach Lowe Show that he needs to make some adjustments to get the most out of this group offensively next season.
“I think you need to find more ways for LeBron and Luka to play off of each other and to actually play with each other a little bit more,” Dakhil said. “There felt like there were too many possessions, especially in the playoffs, where it felt like, okay, LeBron, just go stand in the corner, right? And then let’s go. I mean, 41 years old, all that. Get it. There are times where maybe he does need to take a few plays off.
“Totally get it,” Dakhil continued. “Understand that. But I want to see him more involved with helping Luka get off, and I think get going. And I think there’s stuff there, I know it’s mainly going to be Deandre Ayton as a pick the ball screener, but why not throw in some stuff where LeBron’s the screener for Luka?
“Or more importantly, where you position LeBron in those ball screens matters a ton to me because I don’t want him in the corner,” Dakhil added. “I actually want him above the break because I feel like with that pick and roll, as good as Luka is and obviously with Ayton, there’s an opportunity for LeBron to cut behind the nail or to attack on the kickout.”
Host Zach Lowe felt this adjustment presents LeBron James with the opportunity to excel as a cutter, as he did during his time with the Miami Heat. Dakhil pointed out that was what was missing offensively for the Lakers last season, but acknowledged it was difficult to implement as Luka Doncic only arrived midway through the campaign.
“There’s no reason for these two guys not to be able to play off of each other, work with each other to create opportunities for one another, and open up the doors,” Dakhil stated. “And I think Luka can add a couple more years to LeBron’s career, if he’s willing to kind of dial back his usage and be Superman when he needs to be.”
Dakhil would like to see James and Doncic screen for each other off the ball as well. He thinks it opens up all sorts of possibilities with this offense. It will be interesting to see if Redick incorporates any of this next season.
The Lakers finished with a 50-32 record under Redick in 2024-25, which got them the third seed in the West. Their offensive rating of 115 ranked 11th in the NBA, up from 15th the season prior. Getting in the top 5 would be the next step in the progression.
While the Lakers’ offense should operate well, there are concerns regarding the defense. That has been highlighted as the major problem when it comes to this roster. The Lakers appear to realize that as well, as they have reportedly reopened trade talks with the Miami Heat for Andrew Wiggins.
If the Lakers fail to acquire Wiggins or any other quality wing defender, for that matter, then Redick is going to have a tough task on his hands on the defensive end.
