Lakers’ week in review
Even with the season over for the Lakers, the team had an eventful week with the resignation of coach Mike D’Antoni.
The obvious question for the franchise -- who will be the next head coach?
That’s an answer that may take some time. Options could include college coaches such as Kevin Ollie, John Calipari or Mike Krzyzewski. Available NBA coaches George Karl, Jeff Van Gundy, Kurt Rambis and Byron Scott may also be on the Lakers’ list. Former Lakers’ assistant coach Ettore Messina could also be an option. Mike Dunleavy Sr. expressed interest as well.
One sports book gave Steve Kerr and Derek Fisher the edge for the job. A Times’ poll endorsed Scott, followed by Messina and Ollie.
Upon D’Antoni’s resignation, Charles Barkley chastised Magic Johnson for a tweet celebrating the coach’s departure.
The bigger news around the NBA was the Donald Sterling situation with the Clippers. Lakers executive/owner Jeanie Buss said that what NBA officials determined were Sterling’s racially charged comments were “reprehensible.â€
Kobe Bryant, reflecting on Sterling, urged appreciation for the Buss family.
After NBA Commissioner Adam Silver imposed a lifetime ban on Sterling, Buss said the commissioner showed “great leadership.â€
Former Laker Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar offered a different perspective on Sterling.
Meanwhile, James Worthy will represent the Lakers at the May 20 NBA draft lottery.
Finally, former Lakers center Dwight Howard and the Houston Rockets were eliminated from the playoffs by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.
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