Heading into the off-season, all the attention is on the NBA Draft and free agency for the Los Angeles Lakers. With three draft picks and ample cap space, the storied franchise looks to take the next step in their rebuilding process.
— Think You Know Everything About Kobe Bryant? Take The Ultimate Kobe Quiz! —
With reports of the Chicago Bulls likely parting ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau after being eliminated in the second round, he has already been linked to the New Orleans Pelicans and Orlando Magic. However, a rumor recently surfaced that the Lakers will pursue Thibodeau in the off-season. In an interview with AM 570 LA Sports, general manager Mitch Kupchak addressed the rumor:
Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak addressed the rumored interest in Tom Thibodeau on @sportsreiter's radio show: pic.twitter.com/IpUNJkFZzs
— Sean Highkin (@highkin) May 21, 2015
After Mike D’Antoni resigned, the franchise eventually hired Byron Scott and he has three years remaining on his contract which includes a team option. While the Lakers suffered their worst win percentage in franchise history, the front office has maintained they are pleased with Scott.
Through all the season-ending injuries to key players, the Lakers were competitive for the most part this season and Scott was a key factor in developing Jordan Clarkson, who recently earned All-Rookie first team honors.
With Scott heading into his second season as the Lakers coach, there is great optimism moving forward with the returns of Kobe Bryant and Julius Randle, rise of Jordan Clarkson and a No. 2 prospect in Karl-Anthony Towns or Jahlil Okafor.
[divide]
