The Los Angeles Lakers are on the lookout for a new head coach, marking their eighth hire in the past 14 years. This ongoing search follows their second coaching change since winning the 2020 NBA Finals, underscoring the frequent transitions within the league.
Initially, the Lakers targeted Dan Hurley, UConn’s head coach, with an enticing six-year, $70 million contract offer. However, Hurley chose to remain at UConn to pursue a third NCAA national championship, despite being flattered by the Lakers’ interest. His decision has prompted the Lakers to explore other potential candidates for the role.
JJ Redick is one notable contender. Although he lacks formal coaching experience, Redick has an in-depth understanding of modern basketball strategies and enjoys a strong rapport with LeBron James. Given James’ significant influence within the franchise, Redick’s extensive playing career and analytical skills make him an intriguing, if unconventional, choice for head coach.
Another strong candidate is Kenny Atkinson, known for his time with the Brooklyn Nets and his recent achievements with the Golden State Warriors. Atkinson is highly respected for his talent development abilities and for fostering a robust organizational culture. His experience and strategic expertise could prove invaluable to the Lakers, especially if D’Angelo Russell remains on the roster.
Chris Quinn, currently a lead assistant with the Miami Heat, also emerges as a compelling option. With a decade of coaching experience under Erik Spoelstra, Quinn has earned a solid reputation in the NBA. His skills in player development and tactical adaptation could be highly beneficial for the Lakers’ future success.
James Borrego, the former head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, brings a wealth of experience from his time with the San Antonio Spurs’ championship teams. Although his tenure in Charlotte had its challenges, Borrego is well-regarded for his basketball acumen and coaching philosophy. His familiarity with the Spurs’ winning culture could offer a significant advantage for the Lakers.
Lastly, Sam Cassell stands out as a strong candidate due to his extensive experience as both a player and a coach. Known for his ability to connect with players and his tactical knowledge, particularly regarding guards, Cassell has also been part of the Boston Celtics’ recent successes, adding to his appeal as a potential head coach for the Lakers.
As the Lakers continue their search, each of these candidates brings unique strengths that could help steer the team towards future victories.
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