After playoff exit, Lakers consider fresh coaching prospects including former player and podcaster JJ Redick; Kidd and Lue out of the running.
On May 7, 2024, following a first-round playoff defeat to the Denver Nuggets, the Los Angeles Lakers made a significant coaching change by parting ways with Darvin Ham. With the postseason exit, the Lakers initially considered veteran coaches Jason Kidd and Tyronn Lue as potential successors. However, both prospects have since diminished. Kidd is poised to continue with the Dallas Mavericks after advancing to the second round, while Lue has expressed his commitment to remaining with the Los Angeles Clippers, effectively narrowing the Lakers' options.
Amid these developments, JJ Redick, a former NBA player turned broadcaster who recently launched a podcast with Lakers star LeBron James, has emerged as a surprising yet serious candidate for the Lakers' coaching vacancy. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, negotiations to appoint Redick, who has no formal coaching experience, are in the advanced stages. This decision underscores a shift towards leveraging in-depth basketball knowledge and media savvy in coaching roles, reflecting a broader trend in the NBA.
The Lakers are also reportedly considering other notable figures for the role, including Mike Budenholzer, former Bucks coach known for his championship run, and several distinguished assistant coaches: Kenny Atkinson from the Golden State Warriors, David Adelman from the Memphis Grizzlies, Micah Nori from the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Charlies Lee from the Boston Celtics. Each candidate brings a wealth of experience and a distinct strategic outlook that could prove beneficial in revitalizing the Lakers' lineup.
For NBA fans and those following the coaching carousel, the developments offer a mix of strategic decision-making and potential shifts in team dynamics. To stay updated with the latest in NBA action and explore related topics, Nice88 provides a comprehensive platform for sports betting and gaming. With options ranging from betting on game outcomes to engaging in real-time strategy discussions, Nice88 caters to both seasoned bettors and newcomers. Users can log in or sign up at Nice88 to enjoy a seamless experience that includes extensive betting opportunities, interactive gameplay, and exclusive sports insights and promotions, enriching their engagement with the sport.
2024/05/07, picture citation source Associated Press