JJ Redick Sends Strong Message About Lakers' Championship Expectations
JJ Redick makes his championship expectations clear as the Lakers prepare for a new era led by Luka Doncic.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick is not shying away from the high expectations he has set for his new team. The Lakers made major roster changes this offseason, trading LeBron James and giving the keys to Luka Doncic. Despite these changes, Redick is convinced his Lakers have what it takes to contend for a championship. In the days leading up to training camp, Redick told reporters he expects Los Angeles to evolve into a championship-level team this season.
He stresses that this is a bold expectation, but he is not swayed by outside perceptions. Redick acknowledges that teams like the Knicks, Spurs, and Thunder have earned the right to be seen as championship contenders. However, he is not willing to let those perceptions define what his team believes it can achieve. He emphasizes that the Lakers are on their own path and journey, and that excites him.
Redick's confidence stems from the Lakers' offseason reshaping around Doncic and Austin Reaves, adding Walker Kessler for rim protection and players like Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Matisse Thybulle, and Ziaire Williams for depth and versatility. He believes the Lakers now have multiple ballhandlers, increased shooting, an elite rim protector, and several capable wing defenders, qualities that could be crucial on defense.
The Lakers struggled defensively last season, finishing 20th in defensive rating despite winning 53 games and securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference. Redick believes the offseason additions have equipped him with the personnel needed to make significant defensive improvements. Lakers guard Austin Reaves agrees with Redick's expectations, praising the team's talent, versatility, and Doncic's elite status.
While Redick understands the difference between having championship potential and actually becoming a champion, he stresses that it is the process of becoming a champion throughout the season that matters most. He is not lowering expectations based on skepticism from others, as he remains focused on the Lakers' goal of competing for a championship.
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