In a move that signals a new era for the Los Angeles Lakers, newly-appointed head coach JJ Redick has named Anthony Davis as the team’s new captain ahead of the 2025-2026 NBA season.
Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter and media analyst turned head coach, made the announcement during a press conference at the team’s training facility in El Segundo on Tuesday morning. The decision comes just weeks after Redick officially took over the Lakers’ coaching role, following the departure of Darvin Ham earlier this summer.
“Anthony represents everything we want this team to be about—discipline, resilience, and unselfish leadership,” said Redick. “He’s not just a superstar; he’s a tone-setter in the locker room and a leader by example on the floor.”
A Shift in Leadership
The captaincy had been unofficially shared in recent years between Davis and now-retired superstar LeBron James. With James stepping away from the game at the end of the 2024-25 season, the team has entered a transitional phase—both culturally and competitively. Redick’s appointment of Davis is viewed as a stabilizing move for a franchise looking to remain in contention while redefining its identity.
At 32, Davis is coming off one of the most complete seasons of his career, averaging 24.6 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game while playing a career-high 78 games. His performance earned him All-NBA Second Team honors and praise for his two-way impact.
“I’m honored, man. This franchise means everything to me,” Davis said at the press event. “LeBron set the standard here, and now it’s my job to carry that torch. We’ve got a group of guys ready to compete, and I’m ready to lead.”
Building Around Davis
Redick has emphasized a modern, player-first approach since taking over, hinting at changes in both playing style and team dynamics. Sources inside the organization say Davis will be heavily involved in mentoring younger players, including promising guard Jalen Hood-Schifino and recent first-round draft pick Tyrese Walker.
The team has also made offseason moves to strengthen the roster, including the signing of veteran point guard Tyus Jones and the re-signing of Austin Reaves, solidifying their backcourt while maintaining financial flexibility.
Looking Ahead
The Lakers are set to begin training camp in early October, with preseason games scheduled shortly thereafter. Redick’s leadership, combined with Davis’ new role as captain, sets the stage for what could be one of the most compelling Lakers seasons in recent memory.
Whether this new structure leads to a deep playoff run remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Lakers are turning the page, and Anthony Davis is now the face of that future.
