After a disappointing season for the Los Angeles Lakers, the team is on the hunt for a new head coach to lead them back to success. With the recent departure of Frank Vogel, who was let go after failing to guide the team to the playoffs, the Lakers are looking for someone who can bring stability and a winning mentality to the organisation.
Rumours have been swirling around the NBA community about who the frontrunner for the Lakers’ head coach job might be. Numerous names have been thrown into the mix, from established coaches with championship experience to up-and-coming assistants looking for their first shot at the top job. However, it appears that a clear frontrunner has emerged in recent days.
According to sources close to the team, former Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson is reportedly the top candidate for the Lakers’ head coaching position. Atkinson, who was let go by the Nets in 2020 despite leading the team to their first playoff appearance in four years, is highly regarded around the league for his player development skills and innovative offensive schemes.
Atkinson’s offensive system is predicated on ball movement, spacing, and three-point shooting, which could be a perfect fit for the Lakers’ roster, which features LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His emphasis on player development could also help the Lakers’ young core of players, such as Talen Horton-Tucker and Kyle Kuzma, reach their full potential.
In addition to his coaching acumen, Atkinson is known for his excellent relationships with players and his ability to connect with them on a personal level. This could be key for the Lakers, who have had issues with team chemistry and cohesion in recent years.
While Atkinson is the frontrunner for the job, the Lakers are reportedly still considering other candidates as well. Names such as Jason Kidd, Chauncey Billups, and Becky Hammon have all been mentioned in connection with the job, and the team is expected to conduct interviews with multiple candidates before making a final decision.
Whoever the Lakers ultimately choose as their new head coach, one thing is clear: expectations will be high. With a roster that features two of the best players in the league, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the pressure will be on the new coach to deliver results and lead the team back to championship contention.
It remains to be seen whether Kenny Atkinson will be the one to take on this challenge and lead the Lakers back to glory. But if reports are to be believed, he is the frontrunner for the job and could be the man tasked with turning the Lakers’ fortunes around. Only time will tell if he is up to the task.