TITLE: Redick and Pelinka Welcome Championship Expectations as Lakers Open Camp
SLUG: redick-pelinka-embrace-lakers-championship-pressure
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said the franchise is prepared to meet heightened championship expectations after an ambitious offseason that brought Luka Doncic to a roster already led by LeBron James.
Speaking Sept. 25, 2025 at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, Calif., Redick acknowledged the weight that accompanies coaching the 17-time NBA champions, especially with James entering his 23rd campaign—one that could be his last.
“There’s always pressure with the Lakers,” Redick said during his preseason press conference. “You come into this building every day and you’re constantly reminded of Lakers excellence. The standard doesn’t change.”
Redick added that he and his staff spent the summer sharpening their approach. Assistant coaches Beau Levesque, Lindsey Harding, Ty Abbott and Michael Wexler were given expanded responsibilities in pre-draft workouts, Summer League and offseason training sessions that began in mid-August.
Pelinka echoed Redick’s stance, emphasizing that the front office followed a “methodical” offseason plan aimed at building a title contender. “Now we’re going to dive into the process of having this team come together and be great,” Pelinka said, noting that the first full team meeting is set for Monday.
The Lakers still hold trade assets ahead of the February deadline, but both team leaders insisted that the current roster is equipped to compete for the 2025-26 championship.
Redick receives contract extension
Pelinka also confirmed that Redick, entering his second season on the bench after a successful rookie year, has signed a contract extension. Terms were not disclosed.
Source: LakersNation.com
