As the NBA Draft Combine unfolds in Chicago, the Lakers are stepping up their efforts to secure a replacement for Darvin Ham, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports. This undertaking is expected to be extensive and deliberate, signalling a thorough exploration of potential candidates.
Among the names emerging in discussions, James Borrego, the accomplished assistant coach from New Orleans, stands out. Borrego’s success in transforming the Pelicans’ offence into a top-tier unit has drawn attention, bolstering his candidacy. Additionally, his tenure with the Charlotte Hornets showcased his ability to guide a team to significant improvements in performance.
A surprising but intriguing prospect in the mix is J.J. Redick, the ESPN analyst with no prior coaching experience. Despite his lack of coaching background, the Lakers are reportedly showing interest in Redick and are evaluating his potential as a head coach. This unconventional approach reflects the team’s willingness to explore diverse options in their search.
The coaching search extends beyond Borrego and Redick, with several top assistant coaches also under consideration. Micah Nori (Minnesota), David Adelman (Denver), Sean Sweeney (Dallas), and Chris Quinn (Miami) are among those being evaluated for the role. Additionally, Kenny Atkinson, currently serving as an assistant coach for the Warriors, has garnered attention for his prior head coaching experience with the Brooklyn Nets.
A critical question looms over the Lakers’ decision-making process: Should they opt for another first-time head coach, akin to their previous selection of Ham? The potential risks and rewards associated with this approach are evident, as demonstrated by the contrasting trajectories of coaches like Steve Kerr and Steve Nash. The urgency to maximize LeBron James’ championship window adds complexity to this decision, prompting consideration of more seasoned candidates like Borrego and Atkinson.
While past patterns suggest a preference for experienced coaches, the Lakers’ current outlook suggests a willingness to explore all possibilities. With Tyronn Lue’s contractual status complicating matters, the coaching search is poised to be a protracted endeavour, emphasizing the gravity of this decision for the franchise’s future.
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