As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the new NBA season, head coach JJ Redick is prioritizing conditioning. He aims for his team to achieve “championship shape” through rigorous training routines.
Training Camp Insights
During the third day of training camp, Redick led a series of demanding full-court sprints. While some players may not appreciate the intensity, Redick believes that improved fitness levels are crucial for success this season.
Luka Doncic’s Transformation
Star player Luka Doncic, 26, exemplifies the commitment to this goal. He has transformed his physique through a challenging summer regimen involving intense workouts and strict dietary control. Doncic emphasized the importance of both physical and mental conditioning during training.
- Key workout elements include:
- Full-court sprints
- High-intensity drills
Preparation for Preseason
The Lakers’ final practice before their preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns included intense conditioning exercises. Players were required to complete multiple sprint sets, reinforcing Redick’s philosophy of fast-paced play and strong defense.
- Drills included:
- Six court lengths in 34 seconds
- Ten court lengths in 60 seconds
- Repeat of six lengths for final push
Redick himself participated in the final sprint, demonstrating his commitment alongside the players. “I just ran the last six,” he stated, showing his dedication to the team’s conditioning.
Team Unity and Challenges
Despite the high demands on their stamina, players are embracing Redick’s coaching style. Guard Gabe Vincent mentioned that collective hardship can foster unity among the team.
However, not every player is available for the preseason match against the Suns. LeBron James is sidelined due to nerve irritation in his glute, while Marcus Smart is managing left Achilles tendinopathy. Rookie Adou Thiero is dealing with left knee swelling, and Maxi Kleber is out with a quad injury.
Focus on Player Load
In preparation for the preseason game, Redick plans to limit playing time and avoid extended rotations. He aims to carefully manage the workloads of key players, particularly Doncic and Austin Reaves, both of whom have had busy summers.
With these strategies, the Lakers are not only aiming to improve their physical condition but also to cultivate a unified and motivated team as they strive for a successful NBA season.
