The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves once again in need of a new head coach. After dismissing Darvin Ham following two seasons that ended in playoff disappointments, the Lakers are on the hunt for their fourth head coach in just seven years. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the roster, the stakes are high, and the next hire is crucial.
ESPN’s NBA account [@ESPNNBA] has highlighted NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski’s [@wojespn] insights on potential candidates. With the team officially parting ways with Frank Vogel, the Lakers find themselves at a crossroads, needing to find a leader who can navigate a roster filled with star power.
.@wojespn on Ty Lue and other Lakers potential head coaching candidates ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/Z2P5ykmkSo
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 3, 2024
1. Terry Stotts
Terry Stotts boasts extensive head coaching experience, having led three NBA teams: the Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Portland Trail Blazers. His nine-season tenure with the Blazers included eight consecutive playoff appearances, a conference finals appearance in 2019, and consistent success. Stotts is known for his strong offensive coaching and ability to call plays late in close games. He interviewed for the Lakers job in 2022 but ultimately lost out to Ham.
2. Ty Lue
Ty Lue, the current Head Coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, has an intriguing situation. His contract is up after this season, and rumors suggest he could be a target for the Lakers. Lue previously coached LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers to an NBA title in 2016 and multiple Finals appearances. His Xs and Os acumen, player management skills, and Lakers connection (he spent his first three NBA seasons with the team) make him a strong candidate
3. Mike Budenholzer
Mike Budenholzer, fresh off leading the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 NBA championship, is another name in the mix. He also has a rich coaching history, having been an assistant on four San Antonio Spurs championship teams. Budenholzer’s track record includes a Head Coach of the Year award and impressive regular-season and playoff records. His offensive system and championship pedigree could appeal to the Lakers’ front office.
4. JJ Redick (Wildcard)
ESPN analyst JJ Redick is an unexpected but intriguing candidate. Although he doesn’t have coaching experience, his basketball IQ, deep understanding of the game, and respect among players could make him an outside-the-box choice. Redick’s transition from player to Head Coach would be unconventional, but sometimes bold moves pay off. The Lakers might consider him as a wildcard option.
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