Rumors have been swirling for weeks regarding the future of Mike D’Antoni. There have been reports going every way on the subject, with some saying a peaceful parting is wanted, while others say no decision has been made.
University of Kentucky head coach John Calipari was linked to the job, but he apparently wouldn’t want it if it was offered. Despite the tough season, D’Antoni does have the support of at least some of his players.
Nick Young appeared on ESPN LA 710 this morning and when asked by Mark Willard whether D’Antoni deserves another chance, he defended his coach:
“Yeah, I think he got dealt a short hand. At the beginning of the year we started off well and you could see as time went past everybody started getting hurt and we even started playing with seven guys. But I’m not the GM, I’m not Kobe, I can’t give that say so but I believe coach is a good coach.”
D’Antoni has lost the support of the fans, though it is arguable that he ever really had much to begin with. But most players seem to enjoy playing for D’Antoni and Young does have some good points.
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No coach would have been able to succeed with the amount of injuries the Lakers dealt with this season, and the Lakers did have a decent start to the season, going 10-9 before Kobe made his return.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to the front office and what they feel is best for the team. Young may fit well on future Lakers teams, but does D’Antoni? That is the question facing Mitch Kupchak and the Lakers organization.
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Nick Young With A Special Message For Lakers Fans Before Their Last Home Game