Darvin Ham struggled to optimize the Los Angeles Lakers' lineup in the 2023-24 season, notably delaying the introduction of his five best players on the court together. This change, made during a pivotal game against the Portland Trail Blazers, led to a significant improvement in performance.

As the 2024-25 season approaches, JJ Redick plans to start LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura from the beginning. Redick's strategy focuses on optimizing James' role and ensuring team synergy, despite some defensive weaknesses in the lineup.