With training camp approaching, the Los Angeles Lakers are determined to exceed expectations. Most of the players and coaches are already at the practice facility preparing for the new season. In an interview with TWC Sportsnet, Mike D’Antoni is anxious to get the season started and believes everyone in the organization should have a chip on their shoulder.
Although it’s a new season, Mike D’Antoni can’t escape the controversy surrounding him being named the Lakers head coach instead of Phil Jackson. Excerpts of Jeanie Buss’ re-released memoir, “Laker Girl,” features a new chapter about her thoughts regarding the situation. She was “practically destroyed” and felt betrayed by Jim’s decision to hire D’Antoni instead of Phil Jackson.
If the entire organization was behind the hiring of D’Antoni, it would lessen the criticism that surrounds him. That certainly isn’t the case and with Jim always defending his decision to hire D’Antoni and Jeanie wishing it was Phil instead, there is no end in sight. Everyone will continue to wonder what it would have been like if Jackson was hired and continue criticizing D’Antoni until something significant happens.
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