Stephen A. Smith recently suggested on ‘First Take’ that the Los Angeles Lakers should consider Monty Williams for their head coaching position following his recent firing from the Detroit Pistons. Smith emphasized that Williams’ availability could be a significant opportunity for the Lakers to improve their team dynamics and overall performance.
“I know we’ve been talking a lot about JJ Reddick, but with Monty Williams available, that is a situation that the Los Angeles Lakers should look at, okay? So I would definitely say that as well.”
“They should look at it. Obviously, Jeannie Buss, you know how much I love Jeannie Buss I’m rooting for her to find the right person for the job. Respect Rob Polenko, what he’s going to do, you know, and yes, I respect Kurt Rambis too.”
“I was joking around about him earlier, but I respect him too. So listen, they’re all going to be a part of the process and we’ll see what happens. And, you know, I think Monty Williams definitely should be a candidate for that job.”
"With Monty Williams available, that is a situation the Los Angeles Lakers should look at."
Stephen A. Smith with a last ditch effort to keep JJ Redick at ESPN? pic.twitter.com/QHdKn9CXkj
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 19, 2024
Smith pointed out that while there has been considerable discussion about JJ Redick being the next head coach for the Lakers, the team should also evaluate Monty Williams as a potential candidate.
He acknowledged the importance of Lakers’ owner Jeanie Buss, General Manager Rob Pelinka, and Executive Kurt Rambis in the decision-making process and expressed his respect for their roles. Smith believes that Williams’ experience and coaching abilities could be beneficial for the Lakers.
Monty Williams has a notable coaching history, having won the NBA Coach of the Year award twice. He led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021, demonstrating his capacity to build and guide a successful team. Despite his recent challenges with the Pistons, where he was unable to turn the team’s fortunes around, his overall track record remains impressive.
On the other hand, the Lakers have shown a strong inclination towards hiring JJ Redick, a former NBA player with no prior head coaching experience. Redick’s potential appointment represents a significant risk due to his lack of coaching background. However, the Lakers might be attracted to his fresh perspective and potential to bring new strategies to the team.
The Lakers’ decision on their next head coach is critical for their future success. Hiring Monty Williams could provide the team with a seasoned coach who has a proven ability to lead and develop a competitive team.
Conversely, opting for Redick might bring a new approach, though it carries the uncertainty associated with a first-time coach. Ultimately, the Lakers must weigh the benefits of experience and stability against the potential for innovative change as they make their decision.
The Lakers Might Be Too Late To Approach Monty Williams
The Lakers may face a strategic error if they decide to pursue Monty Williams for their head coaching position. Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin has strongly suggested that the team is on the verge of finalizing a deal with JJ Redick as their new head coach. Any deviation from this path could lead to complications.
Sources: JJ Redick Is The Next Coach Of The Los Angeles Lakers https://t.co/EVxr4h6BVh
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) June 18, 2024
The Lakers have already experienced a setback when Dan Hurley turned down their substantial $70 million offer. This rejection has likely put additional pressure on the team’s decision-makers to secure a solid candidate swiftly. Introducing Monty Williams into the mix at this late stage could disrupt their plans and jeopardize the nearly confirmed hiring of Redick.
Pursuing Williams now may not only undermine their negotiations with Redick but could also reflect poorly on the organization’s decision-making process. It might appear as if the Lakers are uncertain about their choices, which could erode confidence among the team’s supporters and stakeholders.
Additionally, Monty Williams, who has a proven track record but was recently dismissed from the Detroit Pistons, may not be the immediate solution the Lakers need to stabilize their coaching situation.
Redick, despite his lack of head coaching experience, brings a fresh perspective and potential innovative strategies to the table. The Lakers’ apparent commitment to him suggests they are looking for a new direction and energy. Diverting their focus to Monty Williams at this point could complicate and prolong the hiring process, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty.
While Monty Williams is an attractive candidate with a wealth of experience, the Lakers might be better served by sticking to their current plan and securing JJ Redick as their head coach. This approach would provide clarity and stability, allowing the team to move forward with confidence.
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