Although they were questioned and criticized for the timing of breaking off former head man Byron Scott because of the recent hiring of highly prized coaches such as Scotty Brooks and Tom Thibadeau, the Los Angeles Lakers announced earlier today the team had reached an agreement with Warriors’ Assistant Luke Walton to become their head coach.
In a statement, Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak said:
“We are excited to bring Luke back to Los Angeles, where we feel he’s going to start an outstanding coaching career. He’s one of the brightest young coaching minds in the game and we feel fortunate that he’ll be leading the on-court future of our team.”
Walton served as the interim head coach for the Warriors while Steve Kerr recovered from an injury. He lead the team to a 39-4 record during that period. Walton will assume his new role at the conclusion of the Warriors’ postseason.