In the aftermath of their elimination from the NBA playoffs, Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham addressed the team in the locker room.
With the sting of defeat still fresh, his words carried added weight, especially in light of Jamal Murray‘s buzzer-beater that sealed the Lakers’ fate in Game 5 against the Denver Nuggets.
“You take a lot of flak for your rotations, but rotations are secondary,” Ham said. “Primary is health… Health is the greatest of wealth.”
The Lakers, fresh from their Game 5 defeat, found themselves on the wrong side of history once again as Murray’s clutch shot sent them packing in the first round. Despite a valiant effort from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the defending champions were unable to overcome the Nuggets’ resilience.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Darvin Ham, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Ham finds himself at the center of speculation regarding his future with the franchise. Despite the mounting pressure for change, insights from NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski suggested that Ham might retain his position, with the team unlikely to pursue a high-profile replacement due to financial constraints.
“Here’s what the Lakers will have to look at: What is the marketplace; who is available out there? Mike Budenholzer is the most accomplished coach that’s available. The Lakers have not shown necessarily a willingness to pay for a head coach of what Budenholzer is going to command on the market,” Wojnarowski said. “Is it fair for Darvin Ham to lose his job? If they get swept, if they lose in five, it is part of the conversation the Lakers are going to have.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Darvin Ham, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Ham’s journey as Lakers head coach has been a tumultuous one, marked by highs and lows. Taking the reins in 2022 after a postseason absence under Frank Vogel, Ham faced immense scrutiny in his inaugural season. Despite a rocky start, the Lakers rallied under his leadership, reaching the Western Conference Finals, only to be swept by the eventual champions, the Denver Nuggets.
Amidst rumors swirling about his job security, Ham remained steadfast, expressing confidence in the support of Lakers brass. “Nah, it comes with the territory,” he remarked. “My governor, Jeanie Buss, the boss lady, our president, Robert Pelinka, we’re all aligned. As long as they’re not saying it, I guess I’m good.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Darvin Ham, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
As the Lakers confront the aftermath of their playoff exit, the spotlight remains firmly on Ham. With uncertainty surrounding his future, Ham’s resilience and determination shine through, echoing his belief in the strength of unity and trust within the Lakers organization.
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