The Los Angeles Lakers have parted ways with head coach Darvin Ham after recurring playoff failures, signaling major shifts within the team dynamics and leadership.
On May 5, 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers, following consecutive playoff eliminations by the Denver Nuggets, made the decision to dismiss head coach Darvin Ham. With Ham's dismissal, reports indicate that the entire Lakers coaching staff will also be disbanded. This upheaval comes despite Ham having two years remaining on his contract, with the Lakers obligated to pay out the remaining $10 million.
The decision underscores deeper issues within the Lakers' organization, notably a significant disconnect between Ham and his players, which was highlighted during the postseason. Tensions surfaced publicly when Anthony Davis criticized the team's strategies on both offense and defense, comments that Ham dismissed as merely emotional reactions to the playoff loss. This dismissal of concerns reportedly damaged Ham's standing with the team, illustrating a breakdown in communication that could not be mended.
The Lakers' locker room dynamics have been complex, with rotations and player roles contributing to unrest. Prominent players like LeBron James and Davis experienced shifts in their roles, and choices like starting Taurean Prince over Rui Hachimura left many questioning Ham's decisions. Such shifts, especially early in the season, eroded trust and confidence in Ham's leadership.
Sources close to the team noted, "Once you lose confidence inside the locker room, you can't get it back," highlighting the irreversible nature of the lost trust. This sentiment was echoed by an assistant coach from another Western Conference team, who remarked on the balance between tactical acumen and communication skills, suggesting Ham struggled with both.
Looking ahead, the Lakers are poised to search for a coach who can align with LeBron James during his final peak years and rebuild trust among the team’s stars. High-profile names such as Mike Budenholzer, JJ Redick, and Tyronn Lue have been floated as potential candidates, alongside notable assistants like Kenny Atkinson, David Adelman, Micah Nori, and Charles Lee.
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2024/05/05, picture citation source Associated Press