Jason Kidd might be coaching the Lakers soon.
The former Nets and Bucks coach has been looking for a way back into a NBA coaching role and his chances of succeeding Luke Walton as Lakers coach is “gaining momentum,” according to Bleacher Report.
Kidd apparently reached out to the Lakers and things have started to escalate, according to Ric Bucher:
“Well, now sources are saying that the Lakers have actually gotten back to him and that this has gone to the next level. And that if the Lakers do make a move on Luke – which, based on all of the rumblings, could happen sooner rather than later – Kidd appears to be very much in the mix and possibly is even the favorite.”
Walton’s job security has been questioned since the start of the season when team president Magic Johnson chewed him out over the Lakers’ slow start.
Even with the Lakers’ recent struggles without LeBron James, Walton’s job remained safe as of January thanks to owner Jeanie Buss, who would “almost certainly” prevent any attempt by team brass to oust him, the New York Times reported.
Walton got a lifeline with James’ return Thursday night. He helped lead the Lakers with a near triple-double (24 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists) in a 123-120 win against the Clippers.
The Lakers went 6-11 without James, who was nursing a groin injury suffered on Christmas Day.
Meanwhile, Kidd has been hungry to return to the coaching ranks. He was a candidate for the Knicks vacancy before the team hired David Fizdale. Kidd last coached the Bucks for nearly four years before he was fired last season. He coached Milwaukee to a 139-152 record in 291 games.