With a more cohesive roster, Redick firmly believes the Lakers can reach championship level in the new season.

The 2026/27 NBA regular season will kick off next month, and teams will begin their preseason games to prepare for the new schedule. JJ Redick stated that his players are more cohesive than ever before and he believes the team has the ability to contend for the championship in the new season.

In a key game of the fourth round of the 2025/26 NBA playoffs semifinals, the Los Angeles Lakers, after scoring by Austin Reeves, Rui Hachimura, and LeBron James, ultimately lost 110-115 at home to the Oklahoma City Thunder, falling 0-4 and failing to advance to the Western Conference Finals.

It is worth noting that with LeBron James joining the Philadelphia 76ers, Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves will play more important roles in the new season.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said in an interview, "This is probably the first time in my three years of coaching this team that I've truly felt that these pieces of the puzzle can fit together."

"The team has very clear requirements for whether a player can play. If they can't meet these requirements, they won't get a chance to play. That's the harsh reality."

Redick pointed out, "We are very confident that these players will accept and agree with this. This will naturally create healthy competition, and everyone will eventually get a chance, including making an impact and helping the team win."

"I believe we will continue to grow this season and become a team that can compete for the championship."

When discussing LeBron James' departure, Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said, "I think it's very appropriate to express our gratitude for the LeBron James era before we start talking about a new phase."

"This is a completely new team now, with new players, and that's something we need to talk about. But as an organization, we are still very grateful for the journey we've shared with LeBron James. As we begin a new chapter, I think it's important to make that clear."

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