JJ Redick reveals person behind Lakers' decision to hire DJ for practice sessions
The LA Lakers are going all out in trying new things, including bringing in a DJ for practice sessions, an idea credited to LeBron James, according to new head coach JJ Redick.
During the Lakers' second day of training camp, JJ Redick told reporters that LeBron suggested having a DJ, and though the new head coach enjoyed the vibe, he’s unsure if it will be a permanent fixture.
“It came from LeBron. He requested that there be a DJ before and after practice. I said to the group...I liked the vibe,” Redick said.
The DJ the Lakers hired, DJ Meel, is from Cleveland but now lives in LA, much like LeBron.
Redick joked that while he's unsure how long they’ll keep the DJ, the Lakers' current dilemma is figuring out who will pay for his services.
The team had mixed reactions to the DJ's presence during practice. Austin Reaves appreciated it, saying it boosted the mood while still allowing them to work hard.
“It just brings good vibes. You’re having a good time but working hard at the same time,” he said (per Mike Trudell).
Anthony Davis, however, seemed distracted by the music during an interview, asking:
“What is this music?”
Lakers players credit JJ Redick for bringing ‘structure’ to organization
As per reports from training camp, Lakers players voiced their approval of Redick’s approach, even comparing it to Darvin Ham’s tenure.
Lakers reporter Jovan Buha mentioned on his YouTube show that players appreciated Redick's discipline, structure and communication, with some subtle jabs at Ham’s coaching style.
“The players were very complimentary of JJ Redick and his organization, and structure, and discipline, and communication and it sometimes came at the expense of Darvin Ham and the previous coaching staff," Buha said.
"There were some subtle and not-so-subtle shots at the previous coaching staff.”
Ham was dismissed by the Lakers following a disappointing first-round playoff exit in the 2023-24 season.
He was succeeded by JJ Redick after an extensive coaching search, with Redick bringing in a strong staff that includes former NBA head coaches Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks, as well as Lindsey Harding, who earned Coach of the Year honors with the Stockton Kings in the NBA G League last season.
All eyes will be on the Lakers as they continue to dominate national attention, with 39 nationally televised games in the upcoming season.
During the offseason, the Lakers made only minor changes to their roster. They re-signed LeBron James, drafted his son Bronny, extended Max Christie's contract and brought in sharpshooter Dalton Knecht.