With the Los Angeles Lakers expected to have a long list of candidates for their head coaching vacancy, there will be a number of different kinds of coaches interviewed. Of the names floating around so far, probably the most experienced is former New York Knicks and Houston Rockets coach Jeff Van Gundy.
Van Gundy has more than 10 seasons of NBA experience under his belt, missing the playoffs only once in those years.
According to Sam Amick of USA Today, the Lakers have contacted Van Gundy and he does have interest in the Lakers position:
According to a person with knowledge of Van Gundy’s situation, he has also been contacted by the Lakers and does have an interest in the position. The person spoke to USA TODAY Sports on the condition of anonymity because of the private nature of the process.
The Lakers will probably have some competition soon for Van Gundy’s services if he is one of their favorites as the Houston Rockets are reportedly interested in a reunion with Van Gundy. The Rockets are still in the playoffs, but trail 3-1 to the Golden State Warriors so their season will likely be over soon.
Plenty of names have been mentioned in relation to the Lakers job as the Lakers have received permission to interview Spurs assistant coach Ettore Messina and guys like Kevin Ollie and Derek Fisher reportedly have interest in the position. Golden State Warriors assistant Luke Walton is also considered a favorite of the Lakers.