For the second consecutive week, LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has extended praise to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
In a preview of the upcoming episode of his “Mind the Game” podcast, James, alongside co-host JJ Redick, commended Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault.
“He’s on his s–t,” James said. “He’s young too.”
When asked by Redick if he had interacted with Daigneault personally, James admitted that he hadn’t. Nevertheless, he didn’t hesitate to acknowledge Daigneault’s potential as an exceptional emerging head coach.
This commendation follows James’ recent acknowledgment of the Thunder’s adeptness in drafting talent. He emphasized the importance of having a proficient front office capable of scouting players, particularly as he contemplates a future role as an NBA owner post-retirement.
“I tell you what, when I get my (NBA) team, the teams that draft well, those guys will be working for me for sure,” LeBron James said. “OKC does an unbelievable job.”
During the 2010s, the Oklahoma City Thunder were a formidable force in the league, largely due to the presence of homegrown superstars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. Now, with emerging talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City appears poised for another sustained period of competitiveness.
Daigneault has been instrumental in nurturing this new core group. Since assuming the head coaching role in 2020, the 39-year-old has garnered recognition as one of the premier coaches in the NBA, making him a strong contender for Coach of the Year honors this season.
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