After one of the most frustrating seasons in team history, the Los Angeles Lakers have parted ways with team president Magic Johnson and coach Luke Walton within days of the season finale. The Lakers announced Friday that Walton, who posted a 98-148 record in three seasons in charge, has “mutually agreed” with the team to move on.
NBA analysts and fans had been speculating all season that Walton could be on the way out, but after Magic Johnson “admonished” Walton back in November, the coach reportedly had the full backing of owner Jeanie Buss.
Leaving the Lakers this summer could be great for Walton, who was basically in a no-win situation in LA. The Lakers clearly need a major overhaul, but the organization is currently without a president following Johnson’s exit – and even if the Lakers meet expectations next season, it’s likely LeBron would get credit for the team’s success over Walton.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr said the Lakers are losing “one of the best human beings in the league.”
Adrian Wojnarowski reported this week that Walton expected to be fired immediately after the season – but the Lakers were blindsided by Johnson’s decision to quit.
As always, Twitter had plenty of jokes about LeBron James controlling his team.
