Lakers' coaching search hits snag with two prominent targets

The Los Angeles Lakers’ search for a new head coach before the 2024-25 NBA season has hit a roadblock as top candidates Jason Kidd and Tyronn Lue are unlikely to become available.

Kidd, who led the Dallas Mavericks to two 50-win seasons and three playoff series wins in four attempts, is expected to receive a contract extension from the team, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.

Lue, who has one season left on his contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, is also likely to receive an extension, making him unavailable to the Lakers.

The Lakers fired coach Darvin Ham on Friday after two seasons, citing a need for a new voice and direction. Ham led the team to a 90-74 regular season record and a 9-12 playoff record. The team struggled to find consistency and was eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in five games in the first round in 2023-24.

The Lakers are looking to maximize the final chapter of LeBron James’ career. James, who has two years remaining on his contract, has been vocal about his desire to win another championship before retiring. However, with Kidd and Lue off the table, the team will need to explore other options.

JJ Redick, a former NBA veteran with ties to James, is also a reported candidate, but he lacks coaching experience. The Lakers’ coaching search is further complicated by the team’s history of constant churn, with six coaches in 13 years. The team is looking for stability and a coach who can lead them back to championship contention.

The Lakers’ search for a new coach continues, but it’s clear that Kidd and Lue are no longer in the running. The team must look elsewhere to find the right fit to lead them back to the top of the NBA.