Before the new season, four first-time head coaches were added to the rosters of six other teams. The 2024-25 NBA season kicks off with eight teams under fresh guidance. Doc Rivers assumed control of the Milwaukee Bucks during the middle of the previous season, while Brian Keefe secured the permanent position with the Washington Wizards.
First-Time Coaches Lead High-Profile Teams
JJ Redick, as a new head coach, is in charge of the Los Angeles Lakers. The team consists of experienced players such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis, along with up-and-coming young talent. Redick is under a lot of pressure in his first game. Jordi Fernandez assumes control of the Brooklyn Nets, as Charles Lee takes over the Charlotte Hornets. After serving as interim, Keefe now officially leads the Washington Wizards.
Experienced Coaches Step Into New Roles
Experienced coaches also make decisions. Mike Budenholzer currently leads the Phoenix Suns, a team with championship dreams guided by Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Kenny Atkinson is making a comeback as head coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, with a focus on getting the most out of a lineup that includes Donovan Mitchell. J.B. Bickerstaff is responsible for improving the performance of a struggling Detroit Pistons team led by Cade Cunningham.
Pressure Mounts for Redick and Rivers
Out of all the new coaches, JJ Redick might experience the highest level of pressure. As LeBron approaches 40, the Lakers are expected to do more than just make the playoffs. In the same way, Doc Rivers, coaching Milwaukee for the first time in a complete season, is tasked with leading Giannis Antetokounmpo and recently acquired Damian Lillard to a successful championship campaign.
The coaches are looking to fulfill high expectations as they approach the 2024-25 season filled with anticipation.
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