Former NBA coach and Hall of Famer George Karl has sparked controversy with his recent comments on the current crop of NBA superstars and his critique of the Los Angeles Lakers’ coaching decisions. Karl, known for his candid opinions, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his views on which players he believes qualify as superstars in today’s league. This follows his previous assertion that LeBron James no longer fits the superstar mold.
Karl’s tweet listed Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, and Joel Embiid as the league’s current superstars. He also mentioned that Anthony Edwards is on the cusp of joining this elite group, while expressing uncertainty about 2-time MVP Steph Curry’s status.
“There are less than 10 superstars in the League today. They are Joker, Luka, SGA, GA, Tatum, Joel and maybe still Steph. LeBron was and ANT (Anthony Edwards) will be soon. That’s it,” Karl tweeted.
Karl’s remarks have ignited debate among fans and analysts, particularly his stance on LeBron James. Just weeks earlier, he advised the Lakers to reconsider their reliance on LeBron as a superstar while they search for a new head coach following the firing of Darvin Ham.
“I’ll give the Lakers’ coaching search committee free advice today. LeBron isn’t a superstar anymore and AD will never be one,” Karl said. “Now, be sure to use those truths when evaluating candidates and you might select someone you keep for longer than two seasons.”
Karl’s critique comes on the heels of the Lakers’ decision to part ways with head coach Darvin Ham after just two seasons. The Lakers were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in a 4-1 first-round series of the 2024 NBA playoffs, prompting the organization to make another coaching change. Karl, however, criticized the Lakers for using Ham as a scapegoat for the team’s shortcomings and highlighted the franchise’s pattern of frequent coaching decisions changes.
“Great organizations have systematic accountability, consistency and don’t scapegoat individuals, especially those whose responsibility is limited. The Lakers have had 7 coaches in the last 15 years. None have survived more than two seasons. That’s not a recipe for greatness,” Karl said.
In addition to his views on coaching and superstars, Karl took a shot at the Lakers’ recent history, questioning the legitimacy of their 2020 NBA championship won during the bubble league amid the pandemic.
“The Lakers will be more successful going fwd when they acknowledge the only championship they won since Phil left doesn’t count and they’ve been unstable for 15 years,” Karl posted on X.
Karl’s comments underscore the ongoing turbulence within the Lakers organization. The team is now in the midst of another coaching search, reportedly considering candidates such as JJ Redick, Chris Quinn, James Borrego, Sam Cassell, Kenny Atkinson, David Adelman, Micah Nori, and Sean Sweeney. The Lakers’ front office is expected to undertake a thorough selection process to ensure they find a suitable long-term solution.
Karl’s assessment of the Lakers’ instability and his bold claims about the current state of NBA superstars highlight the complexities and pressures of professional basketball. As the Lakers navigate their coaching search and strategize for the future, they must confront these external critiques and internal challenges head-on.
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