Key Takeaways:
– Three high-caliber assistant coaches could replace recently fired Darvin Ham as the Lakers’ head coach.
– Despite, Tyronn Lue being the Lakers’ first choice, his intentions to remain with the Clippers may alter the decision.
– Experienced coach Mike Budenholzer leads the speculation race among the bettors to land the Lakers head coach position.
– Besides coaching professionals, consideration for podcaster JJ Redick shows the Lakers broad array of choices.
– Kenny Atkinson and Mike Budenholzer, with their previous head coaching experience, have caught Lakers’ attention.
As the Los Angeles Lakers forge ahead in their pursuit of a new head coach, some speculations have started making the rounds. Following the dismissal of Lakers’ former head coach, Darvin Ham, three assistant coaches have risen as possible contenders for the vacant position. This information comes straight from the horse’s mouth with details from Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times [source](https://www.latimes.com/).
In the Running for Lakers’ New Head Coach
Dan Woike mentions Denver’s David Adelman, Minnesota’s Micah Noria, and Dallas’ Sean Sweeney as possible candidates. Boston’s Charles Lee is another assistant coach being eyed for this crucial role. However, the Lakers’ top choice remains Tyronn Lue. It’s crucial to note that Lue and the Los Angeles Clippers have displayed mutual interest, so Lue’s signing remains uncertain.
Although the team is considering all possible options, the process is still in its early stages. Stakeholders within and outside the organization describe the Lakers as “taking their time.”
Experienced Coaches Have the Upper Hand
While Lue represents the Lakers’ prioritization of experienced professionals over first-time coaches like Ham, it does not limit their option to coaches of his ilk alone. Woike speaks of the Lakers casting a wide net, even considering some of the most highly regarded assistant coaches. Potentially, coaches currently participating in the postseason like Adelman, Noria, Lee, and Sweeney may join the Lakers roster.
Interestingly, the team is looking beyond experienced professionals, showing interest in broadcaster/podcaster JJ Redick. Despite his lack of official coaching experience, Redick is receiving serious contention.
Budenholzer – Betting Favorite for New Lakers’ Coach
Mike Budenholzer, former Milwaukee Bucks champion coach, and Golden State’s Kenny Atkinson are being considered for the position. Budenholzer, in particular, has become the betting favorite. He’s the only coaching candidate with an NBA title under his belt. As a result, Draft Kings Sportsbook ranks him at +225 favorite to replace Ham, closely followed by Redick (+260) and Lue (+290).
This reputation comes from Budenholzer’s successful stint guiding the Bucks to their first NBA Championship in half a century. His strategy, which mirrors James’ preference for power plays and the transition game, could be a vital aspect.
Lakers and Coach Ty Lue: A Shared Interest
The Lakers seems to have a fondness for Lue. As reported by ESPN’s Zach Lowe, the Lakers are captivated by the prospect of acquiring Ty Lue. However, Lue has made it clear his intentions lie with the Lakers’ rivals, the Clippers. The final decision remains to be seen, but one thing is certain, the hunt for the Lakers’ new head coach is heating up. Stay tuned for more updates in this evolving saga.