After losing four of their five games, the Los Angeles Lakers have found some new life. Apart from being on a three-game winning streak, the Purple and Gold seem to be playing with great fluidity. Their defense, an area of worry has become compact, limiting opponents to 100 points or below in four of their last five games. Such improvements aren’t just a by-product of greater effort from players. Behind the scenes, JJ Redick and his coaching staff are working meticulously to polish the systems.

It’s because Redick has hired what he describes as “grinders”. And amidst the mix of great experience is also Lindsey Harding, an assistant coach who is quickly gaining prominence. She became the first woman assistant coach in Lakers’ history, and a recent video encapsulated just why.

Working wth big personalities such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis isn’t easy for just any coach. However, Harding, a nine-year WNBA veteran prior to her coaching shift is great at communicating. She could be seen motivating the players and working closely to hone their skills. Furthermore, she is also adored by the rest of the Lakers staff.

What might be unknown is that her rise as a stellar coach has been years in the making. Only last season, she led the Stockton Kings to the best record in the G-League and scooped Coach of The Year honors. Additionally, she was a basketball star, ironically besides JJ Redick at Duke. Hence, the head coach is fully aware of her expert basketball acumen, and it seems to be playing a prominent role for the Lakers this season.

But until now, her involvement hadn’t been showcased. Now that it has, the fans are also embracing Harding’s efforts.

Lakers fans are all with Lindsey Harding

Harding has been around the NBA during her short span as a basketball coach. She has worked with the Philadelphia 76ers and even the Toronto Raptors. And her wisdom is influencing the Lakers in a massive way. Hence, a fan felt “People been sleeping on Coach Lindsey! She was the G-League Coach Of The Year last year in her first year coaching. Glad to have her on our coaching staff!”.

Clearly, Redick has been extremely particular in choosing his support staff. Aside from the likes of Nate McMillian and Brooks, two former head coaches, having Harding adds a modern touch to the game. Her knowledge attracted several offers, including to be at the helm for the Lynx. But she is thriving with the Lakers.

“Whatever she is doing, keep doing it, because the Lakers are okaying legit defense right now” a fan said about her. As mentioned, the Lakers’ defense has been robust over a five-game stretch. Furthermore, their offense has rejuvenated too with Austin Reaves returning from injury.

While it can’t be put solely on Lindsay Harding, the Laker Nation is just glad to have a coach that is actively working and providing valuable feedback to the team. “Its so good to have coaches that actually do something” a fan mentioned in that regard as the former number one pick could be heard giving advice to the likes of Anthony Davis and other Lakers during practice.

It also showcased the passion the former WNBA star has for coaching. Her acumen is second to none. And while Darvin Ham, the former Lakers HC has been great for the Milwaukee Bucks, the fans aren’t regretting his dismissal. A ruthless comment read “Better than Ham lol but facts”.

It’s only the beginning of what seems to be a revolutionary journey that Lindsay Harding could pave for herself.