J.J. Redick, the Lakers' rookie head coach, faced challenges in his debut season, leading to a 50-win record yet falling short in the playoffs. The postseason revealed his preferred player combinations, particularly favoring five-out spacing and small-ball lineups. Significant roster changes, including the trade of D'Angelo Russell for Dorian Finney-Smith, were pivotal in adjusting to higher stakes. While the Lakers struggled against the Timberwolves, contrasting coaching strategies highlight the importance of adapting player roles for success.
As games down the stretch of the regular season became higher stakes, Redick went to more non-center lineups, benching their only playable center in Jaxson Hayes regularly.
These groups prioritize space over size, as demonstrated below. Watch as Doncic brings the ball up in semi-transition while every player runs to a spot outside the 3-point line.
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