Month: April 2024

Darvin Ham’s future as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers is in “serious peril,” according to Shams Charania, Jovan Buha and Sam Amick of The Athletic.

Some close to the organization have indicated that Ham’s return next season is highly unlikely.

The Lakers plan to reassess the season over the next couple of days before reaching a decision.

Ham made several decisions throughout the season that caused doubt within the Lakers. For example, Ham benching Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell during a losing streak after the In-Season Tournament did not sit well with players nor the organization.

There was a sense that Taurean Prince and Cam Reddish were allowed to play through their mistakes, unlike Reaves, Russell, and Rui Hachimura.

Many within the Lakers felt that Ham rarely blamed his own schemes, game plans, or rotations.

Ham signed a four-year contract with the Lakers in 2022.

LeBron James is expected to play up to two more seasons in the NBA, sources told Shams Charania, Jovan Buha, and Sam Amick of The Athletic.

The Lakers are open to offering James any deal to return, including a three-year, $164 million max extension.

James has a $51.4 million player option for next season.

The Lakers are also open to the idea of drafting Bronny James.

James’ relationship with Jeanie Buss is described as being “better than ever.”