Lakers quietly put their future in hands of coach with an impressive track record

If the 2024 NBA offseason is proof of anything, it's that Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick is aiming to empower those around him to do what they do best. It's an essential characteristic for any head coach, let alone one with the mountain of a task that lies ahead of Redick.

As a part of that push to empower his players and fellow coaches, Redick has identified the leader of the youth movement that Los Angeles is finally embracing.

Redick and general manager Rob Pelinka have spoken with candor about their plans to emphasize the development of the up-and-coming players on the roster. It's a massive step in the right direction, as teams that struggle to build from within simply aren't built to last in this era.

According to the official X page for CSE Talent, the Lakers have hired Ty Abbott as the new Lead Player Development Coach.

Abbott most recently worked with the Chicago Bulls, where he assisted in the development of several compelling up-and-coming players.

Ty Abbott hired by Lakers as Lead Player Development Coach

While working with the Bulls, Abbott helped players such as Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White break out and enter new tiers of consistent play and production. He also helped Zach LaVine refine his offensive skill set and become one of the most productive scoring guards in the NBA.

That's a promising sign for the Lakers, which are hoping to help their young core of players take steps towards helping the team contend again.

Los Angeles openly named Max Christie, Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Austin Reaves as members of its young core. It's since drafted Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, and signed Summer League standout Colin Castleton to a two-way contract for the second consecutive season.

While not named, Jarred Vanderbilt is still just 25 years of age and is entering the first season of the four-year, $48 million extension that he signed with the Lakers in 2023.

Ty Abbott helped Bulls develop Ayo Dosunmu, Coby White

With a solid core of young players already in place, Abbott will be tasked with helping them tap into their full potential. Considering the franchise players are 39-year-old LeBron James and 31-year-old Anthony Davis, Abbott's work will go a long way toward defining Los Angeles' long-term success as a team.

It's also in line with Redick's broader vision for the Lakers, as he's repeatedly emphasized player development as a top priority for the 2024-25 season and beyond.

If Los Angeles succeeds in building a program that encourages steady improvement from within, the organization will be transformed in its entirety. Moreover, it will be adequately equipped to compete long-term under the stricter salary cap rules.

It may not be a move that steals headlines, but the hiring of Abbott as the Lead Player Development Coach will go a long way toward deciding if the Lakers can return to consistently contending.