Have dinner before training, Riddick entertains Purple and Gold Army in Beverly Hills

Before the Los Angeles Lakers officially kicked off their training camp, all players gathered for a dinner organized by their new head coach, JJ Redick, at Beverly Hills. During this dinner, Redick took the opportunity to discuss the team identity he aims to cultivate for the upcoming season. LeBron James, affectionately known as “King James,” praised the event, calling it “a fantastic first day” filled with meaningful details.

Earlier at a media day, Redick expressed his desire for the team to be characterized by “efficiency” on both offense and defense. The dinner invitation received positive feedback from James, as well as from Max Christie, a third-year player who recently signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Lakers. Christie commented, “This was our first real gathering as a team. Redick and the staff put together a great presentation that covered our team values and basic rules, allowing everyone to understand and embrace the identity we want as a united group.”

However, when it comes to expectations for the new season, James shared a different perspective. “It’s not fair to put any expectations on us right now,” he said. “The only thing we can rely on is how we practice and work hard every day.”

James also mentioned that he and Redick did not spend much time during the summer discussing the new coaching system. Their communication was limited to occasional messages, meaning he would be learning alongside his teammates as they all adjust to Redick’s instructions.

“This is a learning experience for all of us, and we have to adapt quickly,” James added.