The Los Angeles Lakers are making waves this offseason, not only with their player acquisitions but also with a strategic coaching hire that has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. In a surprising move, the Lakers have brought on Jeremy Holsopple, the former Dallas Mavericks athletic performance director, as their new strength and conditioning coach. This decision is poised to resonate deeply with the team’s superstar, Luka Doncic, and signals a new era under the Lakers’ revamped ownership.
A Proven Coach with a Championship Pedigree
Jeremy Holsopple is no stranger to success. During his tenure with the Dallas Mavericks, he played a pivotal role in transforming the team’s athletic performance, earning him the prestigious title of the NBA’s best strength and conditioning coach in 2021. His work was instrumental in helping Luka Doncic and the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals in 2024, where they ultimately fell to the Boston Celtics. Despite his contributions, Holsopple was unexpectedly let go by Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison shortly after the Finals loss.
Just in: The Lakers have hired Jeremy Holsopple as their new head of strength and conditioning coach, per @TheSteinLine
He won the NBA’s strength and conditioning coach of the year award in 2021 👀 pic.twitter.com/IZXaW3WS79
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) August 11, 2025
The decision to part ways with Holsopple reportedly left Doncic frustrated. “They get rid of everybody I like,” the 26-year-old superstar told an ESPN source earlier this year, with Holsopple believed to be one of the staffers he was referring to. Now, with Holsopple joining the Lakers, Doncic has a familiar and trusted coach in his corner as he prepares for the upcoming season in Los Angeles.
Lakers’ Offseason Overhaul
The Lakers have been proactive this offseason, making significant moves to strengthen their roster and infrastructure. On the court, they’ve added three key players—Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart—to bolster their lineup. They also selected 21-year-old forward Adou Thiero from Arkansas with the 36th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, adding young talent to the mix.
The Lakers are hiring Jeremy Holsopple as their new head strength and conditioning coach, @TheSteinLine has learned.
As Dallas’ athletic performance director, Holsopple was named as the NBA’s top strength and conditioning coach in March 2021.
More NBA: https://t.co/6DCqjEwAvw
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) August 11, 2025
Off the court, the Lakers’ new ownership group is demonstrating a commitment to building a championship-caliber organization from the ground up. The hiring of Holsopple is a testament to their focus on creating an environment that maximizes player performance and satisfaction. By reuniting Doncic with a coach he trusts, the Lakers are making a calculated move to keep their superstar happy and motivated.
Fanbase Buzzing with Excitement
The announcement of Holsopple’s hiring, first reported by Marc Stein, sent Lakers fans into a frenzy on social media. The move has been widely praised as a sign of the new ownership’s forward-thinking approach. “We are starting to see some dominoes from the new ownership regime,” one fan tweeted. Another commented, “New management baby!!! Jeanie [Buss] and the [Linda] Rambis clan would never.”
Fans also highlighted the significance of the hire for Doncic. “Giving your 26-year-old superstar the team of trainers he’s most comfortable with. What a concept,” one supporter noted. Others drew comparisons to the well-run Los Angeles Dodgers, with one fan stating, “Lakers are going to be run well like the Dodgers, confirmed.” The sentiment is clear: Lakers fans see Holsopple’s addition as a step toward building a more efficient and player-focused organization.
A Strategic Move for the Future
Holsopple’s hiring is more than just a feel-good reunion for Doncic—it’s a strategic investment in the team’s long-term success. A world-class strength and conditioning program can make a significant difference in player durability, performance, and recovery, all of which are critical for a grueling NBA season. With Holsopple’s track record of elevating players like Doncic to elite levels, the Lakers are positioning themselves to compete at the highest level.
As one fan aptly put it, “Seems the Lakers are getting people connected to Luka.” This move, combined with the team’s recent roster upgrades, suggests that the Lakers are building a cohesive unit around their superstar. Another fan summed it up as a “good move for the margins,” highlighting how small but impactful decisions like this can set the stage for a championship run.
Looking Ahead
With the offseason in full swing, the Lakers are sending a clear message: they are all-in on building a contender. The addition of Jeremy Holsopple not only strengthens their coaching staff but also reinforces their commitment to creating an environment where players like Luka Doncic can thrive. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Los Angeles to see if these bold moves translate into success on the court.