Darvin Ham’s future as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers is uncertain following the team’s early exit from the playoffs.
He has faced criticism throughout the postseason, with fans even chanting for his dismissal during a game. According to sources, it’s unlikely that Ham will return for a third season with the Lakers.
The team plans to evaluate what went wrong before making a final decision. Ham signed a four-year deal in 2022 worth around $5 million per season, so the team would have to assume the remainder of his contract if he is fired.
Darvin Ham is aware of the pressure he’s under as the head coach of the Lakers. With LeBron James on the team, the expectation is always great.
Darvin Ham expressed frustration with the constant disruptions to the team’s rhythm caused by injuries to key players. Despite the challenges, he remains focused on his responsibilities and is grateful for the opportunity to represent the Lakers organization.
Ham praised the leadership of Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss while acknowledging the steep learning curve he has faced in his role as head coach. He emphasized his commitment to improving and focusing on what he can control moving forward.
Darvin Ham’s handling of the team’s rotation and game plans has come under scrutiny, with team officials and players believing that his inconsistent approach and lack of adjustments contributed to the team’s underperformance throughout the series and the season as a whole. This dissatisfaction within the locker room has been evident across the franchise, according to reports from The Athletic.
Darvin Ham responded to Anthony Davis’ comments by attributing them to frustration, acknowledging the emotional nature of the game and the disappointing end to the season.
However, he indicated a difference of opinion on the matter. The Lakers conducted their exit interviews unexpectedly after the Game 5 loss in Denver, suggesting that a decision on Ham’s future may come sooner rather than later, though the exact timeline is not known.
