After a disappointing first-round exit, the Los Angeles Lakers are in need of a new head coach. The rumor mill has been buzzing with potential candidates, and the sportsbooks have a favorite in mind: Mike Budenholzer.
The Los Angeles Lakers have a gaping hole to fill in their coaching ranks following the departure of Darvin Ham. Despite impressive performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers stumbled to a first-round playoff exit, prompting the team to part ways with Ham.
Enter the rumor mill. Several names have been swirling as potential replacements, and the sportsbooks have installed Mike Budenholzer as the frontrunner.
Budenholzer, currently the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, boasts an impressive resume. He has guided the Bucks to the playoffs in each of his five seasons, capturing the NBA championship in 2021. His coaching prowess has earned him recognition as the NBA Coach of the Year in 2015 and 2019.
Another experienced candidate is Kenny Atkinson, currently an assistant with the Golden State Warriors. Atkinson's previous head coaching stint with the Brooklyn Nets saw him turn around the franchise before resigning amidst the tumult of the Kevin Durant-Kyrie Irving era.
Tyronn Lue, currently with the LA Clippers, is another intriguing possibility. He has a close relationship with LeBron James, having coached him to a championship in Cleveland. Lue's contract with the Clippers is expiring soon, leaving his future uncertain.
However, the most surprising name on the list is J.J. Redick. Despite lacking head coaching experience, the former NBA player and current podcaster with LeBron James has surprisingly strong odds. His impressive college career and solid NBA tenure for 15 seasons have fueled speculation about his potential as the next Lakers coach.
Other candidates mentioned in the rumor mill include:
* Terry Stotts: Former Portland Trail Blazers head coach with a reputation for offensive innovation.
* Becky Hammon: Trailblazing assistant with the San Antonio Spurs, breaking barriers as a woman in the coaching ranks.
* David Adelman: Former head coach of the Sacramento Kings, known for his emphasis on player development.
* Phil Handy: Assistant coach with the Los Angeles Lakers, highly respected for his defensive acumen.
* Rajon Rondo: Former NBA player with a reputation as a savvy court general, making him a potential candidate for a player-coach role.
As the Lakers navigate their coaching search, they will need to consider a wide range of factors. Budenholzer's experience and championship pedigree make him a strong candidate, while Atkinson's ability to turn around underperforming teams is also appealing. Lue's close relationship with James could be a major asset, but his current job situation adds uncertainty.
Redick's lack of head coaching experience raises questions, but his connections to James and his strong basketball IQ could make him a potential wildcard. Ultimately, the Lakers will have to weigh the pros and cons of each candidate before making a decision that will shape the future of their franchise.
