The Los Angeles Lakers have been without a head coach for nearly two weeks since the dismissal of Darvin Ham, following a disappointing first-round exit from the playoffs. Rumors and sportsbooks have been buzzing with potential candidates for the vacancy. Mike Budenholzer, an early favorite, has signed with the Phoenix Suns, leaving the Lakers to explore other options. Some of the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook Ontario include James Borrego, Sam Cassell, JJ Redick, Micah Nori, David Adelman, Terry Slotts, Kenny Atkinson, Frank Vogel, Tyronn Lue, Phil Handy, and Rajon Rondo.
The Lakers are not rushing to make a decision and are carefully considering their options for a new head coach. The front runners according to the sportsbooks are James Borrego, Sam Cassell, and JJ Redick. Borrego, tied at +300, has experience as the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets and previously won two championships as an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs. Cassell, also tied at +300, is a former NBA player with three championships and is currently an assistant coach with the Boston Celtics. Redick, with strong odds at +210, lacks head coaching experience but has a close relationship with LeBron James and has been linked to potential coaching roles with both the Lakers and the Hornets.
As the Lakers continue to deliberate on their coaching decision, the names of Borrego, Cassell, and Redick remain at the forefront of potential candidates. Borrego is known for his offensive coaching style and success in improving teams’ offensive efficiency. Cassell brings championship experience as a player and assistant coach, while Redick’s strong odds reflect excitement around the possibility of him stepping into a coaching role with the Lakers. Other candidates on the list include Micah Nori, David Adelman, Terry Slotts, Kenny Atkinson, Frank Vogel, Tyronn Lue, Phil Handy, and Rajon Rondo, each with varying levels of coaching experience and potential fit with the Lakers.
The Lakers are taking their time in choosing a new head coach, as they aim to make a well-informed decision for the future of the team. While the odds and rumors may provide some insight into potential candidates, the final decision will likely come down to factors such as coaching style, experience, and fit with the team’s roster. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the team, the Lakers will need a coach who can maximize the talent on the roster and lead them to success in the upcoming season. As the search continues, fans and analysts will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of the new head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers.
