The Los Angeles Lakers announced on Friday the dismissal of Darvin Ham as head coach, just four days after the team’s elimination from the NBA playoffs by Denver. Despite Ham’s record of 90-74 over two seasons with the Lakers, the team faced consecutive setbacks, being swept by eventual NBA champions Denver in last year’s Western Conference final and eliminated in five games by the Nuggets this season.
Rob Pelinka, Lakers’ vice president of basketball operations, expressed gratitude for Ham’s efforts and acknowledged the team’s accomplishments, particularly the remarkable run to the Western Conference finals last year. However, after a thorough review of the season, Pelinka stated that the decision to part ways with Ham was deemed necessary to uphold the organization’s commitment to delivering championship-level basketball.
As the Lakers contemplate their next coaching hire, uncertainty looms over the future of superstar LeBron James, who has the option to opt out of his contract next season. James addressed speculation about his future in a tweet, emphasizing his current focus on spending time with family and friends before making any decisions.
Moreover, James has expressed his desire to play alongside his son Bronny next season, who has declared for the upcoming NBA Draft. The Lakers, therefore, face not only the task of appointing a new head coach but also the challenge of navigating James’ contractual situation and his aspirations to team up with his son on the court.
