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Quick Bytes
- Monty Williams parts ways with Detroit Pistons, leaving head coach position open.
- Lakers’ head coach search continues, with Williams currently not in the picture.
- JJ Redick, former player and ESPN analyst, is the favorite for the Lakers’ head coach role.
Coaching Carousel: Pistons and Lakers Navigate Head Coach Changes
The Detroit Pistons have recently let go of Monty Williams, despite him being the highest paid NBA coach just a year prior. Williams, with a history of coaching the New Orleans Pelicans and leading the Phoenix Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals, was once a top candidate for the Lakers.
In 2019, Williams was considered for the Lakers’ head coach position but chose the Suns instead, leading to the Lakers hiring Frank Vogel. With Williams available again and the Lakers seeking a new head coach, speculation arose about a potential match. However, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported on the Pat McAfee Show that Williams is not currently being considered for the Lakers’ role.
As the Lakers progress in their search, it appears they may soon finalize their decision, making it unlikely for Williams to be a late addition to their candidates. Williams, now with a $65 million settlement from the Pistons, might opt for a break from coaching. Meanwhile, rumors suggest that JJ Redick, with no major coaching experience but a strong basketball background, is the frontrunner for the Lakers’ head coach position, potentially leaked by his ESPN colleague Jay Williams.
