Lakers narrow search to 3 ‘initial leading targets’ to become next head coach

The search for the Los Angeles Lakers next head coach has already begun to narrow, according to reports.

The team began interviewing candidates this week and started with a lengthy list that included ESPN analyst J.J. Redick and several current assistant coaches such as Golden State’s Kenny Atkinson, Minnesota’s Micah Nori, Denver’s David Adelman, Dallas’ Sean Sweeney and Miami’s Chris Quinn.

Also included was former Charlotte Hornets Head Coach and current New Orleans Pelicans assistant James Borrego.

Two of those names appear to have made the final-ish cut along with one that wasn’t noted on the original ledger.

3 candidates emerge as favorites to become next Lakers head coach

Per Shams Charania and Jovan Buha of The Athletic, a trio of names has surfaced above the others: Redick, Borrego and Boston Celtics assistant Sam Cassell.

Redick was also reportedly a finalist for the Charlotte Hornets head coaching job that eventually went to Cassell’s staff mate Charles Lee. Redick is a 15-year NBA veteran who would be stepping into a massive situation for a first-time head coach. The Lakers are building around Anthony Davis and aren’t shy about their desperation to bring back LeBron James.

Cassell also had a 15-year playing career and has been an assistant coach in the league for 15 years. He’s developed a strong reputation for player development. Borrego coached the Hornets and Orlando Magic at previous stops.

Los Angeles is looking for a candidate, “who will command the locker room and hold players accountable, as well as tirelessly gameplan and provide a level of structure and organization,” according to Charania and Buha.

Thank you for reading The Dunk Central. Please follow us on Twitter for the latest news and insights on your favorite teams and players. It’s due to your support that we can become one of the market’s fastest-growing NBA outlets!