6. Walton is indeed the team’s coach
Author Mark Twain once purportedly wrote: “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.” So too were early-season rumors that Walton’s job might be in jeopardy.
Yes, Magic was overheard loudly venting his frustration at Luke’s expense. But, chances are good that at least a few readers have been chewed out by their boss but didn’t subsequently lose their jobs.
Despite media speculation, people within the Lakers organization universally insist that Walton was never in danger of being fired. It certainly doesn’t hurt that his biggest supporter just happens to be Lakers owner Jeannie Buss. And even after his outburst, Magic admitted that the team was sticking with Luke.
Like the players, Walton has had to make multiple adjustments. That includes determining which player combinations work best together and what substitution patterns to use. Of course, not all fans will agree with his decisions, which sometimes change game to game.
Luke is very popular among the players, and that includes LeBron, who has readily embraced a much faster pace under Walton than what he played in Cleveland. The recently published story that James decides on his own what plays to run was almost laughable. Virtually the same comments were often made in the past about Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and some guy named Magic Johnson. Is it supposed to be surprising that NBA superstars make their own on-court decisions?
Walton is well-regarded by coaches and management throughout the NBA. The Lakers would be hard-pressed to find someone better suited for its head coach position.