Lakers promote Zach Guthrie to assistant coach and head of player development under JJ Redick
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The Los Angeles Lakers have elevated South Bay Lakers head coach Zach Guthrie to an assistant coaching position and head of player development on JJ Redick’s NBA staff, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Charania reported the move on July 17, 2026, marking another step in the franchise’s sweeping offseason overhaul under new owner Mark Walter.
Track record in South Bay
Guthrie, 39, has led the Lakers’ G League affiliate since 2024. Last season he guided South Bay to a 26-10 record—the best mark in the Western Conference—and a berth in the Western Conference Finals.
During that stretch, the coach was credited with advancing the growth of several young players. Guard Kobe Bufkin earned a standard NBA contract, while forward Drew Timme and guard Chris Mañon secured two-way deals with the parent club.
Key role on Redick’s staff
As head of player development, Guthrie will oversee the progress of recent draftees and two-way signees. Rookie guard Cameron Carr and second-year forward Adou Thiero are among those expected to benefit, along with two-way players Mañon, AK Okereke and Peter Suder.
The appointment continues Guthrie’s ascent through the coaching ranks, which began with NBA assistant roles in 2016 before his move to the G League.
The Lakers have already restructured their front office and training facilities this summer and are reshaping the roster ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Source: Lakers Nation
