Alright, Lakers fans, buckle up because we’ve got a lot to unpack about our team this season!
New Coach, Same Dream
So, the Lakers are rolling into the new season without making any blockbuster trades. The big news? They’ve handed the reins to rookie coach JJ Redick. The message from the top brass is loud and clear: they believe they’ve already got a championship-caliber squad. They just need the right guy to steer the ship. Redick’s got his eyes on one player in particular to help the stars shine even brighter.
Austin Reaves: The Secret Weapon
Enter Austin Reaves. Both Redick and Jeanie Buss have been singing his praises. Remember when Buss told The Ringer back in 2023, โheโs one of my favorite people. We valued him very highly. We didnโt want to see him go somewhere else.โ Yeah, thatโs some high praise. ESPNโs Brian Windhorst even mentioned on his podcast that Redick has big plans for Reaves. โNot only that, when the Lakers were in discussions with teams this summer and Austin Reavesโ name came up, it was a hard no from the front office.โ
LeBron and Bronny: A Family Affair
Now, let’s talk about the King and his heir. LeBron is gearing up for what could be his final seasons. With 22 years under his belt, he needs all the help he can get. Reaves is expected to step up and support the veteran squad. Oh, and did you hear about Bronny getting drafted by the Lakers? The buzz is real. Reaves himself said, โFor LeBron to put himself in a position to play with his son is special. I know he will be motivated to play at his peak level. For me, being around them and seeing what itโs going to be like is going to be very cool.โ How awesome is that?
Christian Wood’s Setback
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Christian Wood had surgery on his left knee and will be out for at least two months. He posted on social media, โDamnโฆ I was just feeling like my old self again and was in peak shape. Minor setback for a Major comeback, and to my fans, donโt stop believing in me.โ
Wood missed the last two months of last season with the same knee issue. He averaged 6.9 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. Not exactly All-Star numbers, but solid contributions. He picked up his $3 million player option to stay with the Lakers, part of a two-year deal worth $5.75 million.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/wixMbpahypM
In my opinion, this injury is a bummer, but Wood’s got the grit to bounce back. The Lakers need every bit of depth they can get, especially with LeBron’s twilight years and AD’s injury history.
So, what do you think, Lakers Nation? Can Reaves step up and fill the gaps? Will Bronny live up to the hype? And can Wood make that major comeback? Drop your thoughts below!
