During the 2023-24 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers witnessed a season of transformation under head coach Darvin Ham. Beginning with a record of 21-22 over their first 43 games, the team was struggling to find its rhythm. It was in their 44th game against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 21 that Ham decided to change his approach, and the results were immediate and impactful.
In this crucial matchup, Ham unveiled a new starting lineup featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura together for the first time. This mix of players not only led the Lakers to victory over Portland but also set the stage for a new era in the team's performance. This newborn lineup turned out to be highly effective, compiling an impressive 18-6 record and outscoring opponents by 5.5 points per 100 possessions.
LeBron James, a figure revered as one of the smartest players in the game, was utilized in innovative ways under Ham's guidance. JJ Redick, who was later announced as the coach for the 2024-25 season, indicated the strategic enhancements by stating, "LeBron is one of the smartest players, and 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." This strategy not only maximized LeBron’s playmaking abilities but also allowed the other key players to thrive.
However, the new starting combination wasn't without its own challenges. The backcourt duo of Reaves and Russell, while potent offensively, posed certain defensive vulnerabilities. These defensives gaps placed additional pressure on the shoulders of Anthony Davis, known for his defensive prowess in the paint. Additionally, Hachimura, though an asset in many areas, is not primarily known for his perimeter defense, increasing the responsibility on Davis to cover more ground defensively.
Despite these challenges, the positive results were undeniable. The unit’s success was a testament to the adaptability and talent within the Lakers' roster. James and Davis remained the fulcrum around which the team revolved, with Reaves, Russell, and Hachimura filling crucial roles that catered to a balanced and dynamic offensive strategy.
As the season progressed, the Lakers' adjustments became more evident, translating into consistent performances and a strengthened team identity. The synergy among the top five talents was clear, and their collective gameplay showcased an ability to outmaneuver and outscore some of the toughest teams in the league.
Moving into the 2024-25 season, the Lakers will be under the new leadership of JJ Redick, whose insights into player utilization could potentially enhance the team's dynamics even further. The early schedule for the season promises to be a challenging one, with matchups against formidable opponents such as the Timberwolves, the Suns (twice), the Kings, and the Cavaliers. It will be intriguing to see how Redick’s strategies, building upon the foundation laid by Ham, will steer the Lakers in this highly competitive environment.
The tactical genius of leveraging LeBron James in varied roles on the court, paired with the solid partnership of Anthony Davis, remains the crux of the Lakers' potential success. If Reaves and Russell can mitigate their defensive shortcomings and Hachimura continues to develop his perimeter defending, the Lakers might very well find themselves atop the standings again.
For now, Lakers fans can find solace in the significant strides made during the latter part of the 2023-24 season. The team’s newfound coherence and strategic depth promise an exciting future, especially under the meticulous guidance of a new coach who seems well aware of the strengths and areas for improvement within this star-studded lineup.