NBA Rumors: Lakers Next Head Coach Down To Lue, Williams

For the Los Angeles Lakers to get back on track, hiring a head coach is a priority. There are three names in the mix, namely Tyronn Lue, Monty Williams and Juwan Howard.

The Lakers already met with Lue and Williams recently, while Howard is scheduled to meet up with Los Angeles ownership and top management on Tuesday, ESPN reported. It remains to be seen if Howard will also get a second interview invite.

Los Angeles should have no problem setting up a second interview with Lue, a favorite since he does hold close ties with LeBron James. The same goes for Howard, a former teammate of the three-time NBA champion when he was still with the Miami Heat. Much of this was covered in a previous post.

The curious candidate of the mix is actually Monty Williams. But unlike Lue or Howard, having a second round of talks with the 47-year-old mentor may not be easy. For one, the Lakers would depend on his availability. He currently serves as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers who are competing in the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs.

Unlike Lue and Howard, Williams has no direct bond with James. However, he does come with a rich resume. He serves as the head coach for the New Orleans Hornets / Pelicans from 2010 to 2015 and also became the Vice President of Basketball Operations for the San Antonio Spurs in 2016.

One curious thing about Williams as well is Anthony Davis. He coached Davis when he was still in New Orleans and reportedly maintains a strong relationship with the 26-year-old All-Star.

With the Lakers unable to strike something during the February NBA trade deadline, that bond could factor in if the purple and gold are planning to make another go at the former top pick of the 2012 NBA Draft.

Whether it be Lue, Williams or even Howard, deciding on the Lakers next head coach plays a vital role in the rebuilding process of Los Angeles, CBS Sports reported. James has vowed to take an active role in the recruitment process. Aside from possibly revisiting a Davis acquisition, the names of Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard have also been mentioned as of late.

The right players to join the Lakers will depend entirely on the system of the next head coach and how these new guys can blend in with The King.