The Brooklyn Nets wrapped up the 2024-25 NBA season with a disappointing 26-56 record, ranking them among the league's worst. However, the season had its bright spots, particularly in the early months when the Nets held a 9-11 record, fueled by standout performances from Cam Thomas, Dennis Schroder, and Cam Johnson. Schroder was particularly impressive, averaging 18.7 points and facilitating well before being traded to the Golden State Warriors in December as part of a rebuilding strategy.

As the season progressed, the Nets' competitiveness waned, with a notable December slump resulting in a 3-9 record, leading to further trades aimed at securing a high draft pick. This included trading Dorian Finney-Smith for D'Angelo Russell and Maxwell Lewis. Challenges intensified with Cam Thomas sidelined for much of the season, limiting the team's scoring potential. Despite the struggles, young players like Keon Johnson and Trendon Watford flourished under rookie head coach Jordi Fernandez. Although player development wasn't uniform, the Nets look ahead with optimism, having ample draft capital and cap space heading into the next season.

Dorian Finney-Smith has become a critical asset for the Los Angeles Lakers since his acquisition from the Brooklyn Nets. His addition has significantly improved the team's defensive capabilities, pivoting them from a lackluster unit to one that showcased resilience during stretches. Despite averaging 7.9 points and shooting nearly 40% from three-point range, his true value lies in his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable piece in the Lakers' championship aspirations.

With a player option of $15.4 million for next season, Finney-Smith's future with the team is now a point of interest after their early playoff exit. While he claims to focus on the immediate goal of playoff advancement, the looming decisions around his contract will be pivotal in the Lakers' offseason strategy. Losing him would further dampen their hopes, as finding a suitable replacement for his role could prove challenging.

JJ Redick has embarked on a new chapter, taking the role of head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers. Emphasizing player development over immediate results, Redick acknowledges the significant changes the team has experienced, particularly with the arrival of Luka Doncic as the new focal point. After a challenging season that ended with a first-round playoff exit, Redick and the Lakers are now focused on building a competitive roster around Doncic.

The Lakers aim to upgrade their center position, having previously attempted to trade for Mark Williams but faced health concerns. Players such as Nicolas Claxton may be potential targets as the team looks to enhance its frontcourt. Moreover, the Lakers also need to consider extension talks for key players like Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith, as well as the future of LeBron James, who is approaching the final years of his career.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick faced a tense moment during a pregame press conference when questioned about his decision-making regarding player rotations. Following a disappointing Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, in which he played five players for the entire second half, Redick was confronted about whether he consults his assistants for rotation decisions.

Redick, defensive about the criticism, emphasized his reliance on his coaching staff throughout games. Analysts, including Charles Barkley, suggested that acknowledging missteps would be more beneficial than deflecting blame. With the Lakers trailing 3-1 in their playoff series, the pressure is mounting for Redick to refine his strategy and ensure player stamina is prioritized.

In Game 4 of the NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers faltered against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing 116-113 after squandering a double-digit lead. Coach JJ Redick’s decision to rely heavily on just five players in the second half left the team fatigued, with critical errors made in the closing moments. LeBron James, 41, saw limited scoring late in the game, attempting only two shots in the fourth quarter, raising concerns about his endurance. This pattern of exhaustion has plagued the Lakers throughout the series, especially as they now trail 3-1.

Redick's strategy faced scrutiny as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves also struggled to maintain their early game momentum, shooting inefficiently in the fourth quarter. The Lakers' inability to secure fourth-quarter leads has been a recurring theme in this series, necessitating a tactical shift if they hope to advance beyond Game 5.