Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick and general manager Rob Pelinka returned to nearly the same seats on the Lakers’ practice court where Redick was introduced as head coach just one year ago. A lot has changed since that 2024 announcement — on and off the court.
Following a blockbuster midseason trade that brought NBA superstar Luka Doncic to the Lakers, Pelinka was rewarded with a contract extension and a new title within the Lakers’ front office. Meanwhile, Redick transitioned from a coaching rookie to a respected leader, building a promising culture within the organization, even as the team suffered a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Despite back-to-back early eliminations, Pelinka remains optimistic.
“Every season starts with one goal — to raise another championship banner. When we don’t achieve that, we fall short,” Pelinka said at Thursday’s press conference. “But we also saw a lot of exciting growth. JJ Redick has brought energy, dedication, and attention to detail we haven’t experienced in years.”
Lakers Playoff Loss to Timberwolves: What Went Wrong?
The Lakers’ 4-1 series loss to Minnesota was a tough pill to swallow. Redick described the post-playoff atmosphere as somber.
“Walking into the building today felt like entering a funeral. A season is like a living organism. This one died before it reached full health,” said Redick, addressing the team’s emotional end.
Lakers Roster Update: Frontcourt Needs After Luka Doncic Trade
One major topic of concern: the Lakers’ need for a dominant center — a void created when the team traded a top big man to Dallas in the Luka Doncic deal.
“We clearly lacked size after the Luka Doncic trade,” Pelinka admitted. “Now we have time this offseason to address the need for a vertical, rim-protecting center.”
While specific names weren’t mentioned, the front office is targeting versatile centers — whether traditional rim-protectors or stretch bigs.
Lakers Core: Confidence in Luka Doncic, LeBron James & Austin Reaves
Pelinka emphasized strong belief in the team’s cornerstone trio: Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves.
“Our confidence in Luka, LeBron, and Austin is higher than ever,” Pelinka said. “They have the championship potential — we just need to surround them with the right pieces.”
LeBron James’ Future with Lakers and His Role Moving Forward
Addressing LeBron James’ ongoing role with the franchise, Pelinka praised the NBA legend’s leadership and adaptability.
“LeBron is one of the GOATs. His shift to an off-ball role and increased defensive focus speaks volumes about his character and championship mindset,” Pelinka said. “He sets the tone, and we plan to meet his expectations for this roster.”
JJ Redick on Lakers Offseason Goals: “We Need to Be in Championship Shape”
Redick offered a candid assessment of the team’s conditioning and preparation.
“We need to be in championship shape — and we’re not there yet,” Redick said. “Some players came into the season in elite condition, others did not. That must change this offseason.”
JJ Redick on Coaching Luka Doncic: “He Wants to Be Coached and Held Accountable”
Redick highlighted his growing partnership with Luka Doncic, whose midseason arrival reshaped the Lakers’ trajectory.
“Luka wants to be coached — he embraces accountability,” Redick said. “Our shared goal is to bring out the best version of him and win a championship together.”
By addressing the Lakers’ roster challenges, playoff disappointment, and offseason strategy, Redick and Pelinka have made it clear: the focus now shifts to building a championship-caliber team around LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
