When LeBron chose to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency, much was made about him supposedly making the decision without really consulting with head coach Luke Walton. In fact, one report said James had “zero contact” with Walton.
James clearly didn’t think Walton presence was an issue, and after meeting with the coach in Las Vegas on Sunday, the two seem to be on the same page.
Walton told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne that he views many of LeBron’s qualities as ones he can work with as a coach.
Btw, LeBron did more than watch the Lakers summer league team in Vegas on Sunday. He met with Lakers coach Luke Walton, who said, “he’s about the team. He’s about doing things the right way and he’s about winning. I can work with those qualities.”
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 17, 2018
Though LeBron is the best player in the league and his presence on your team means instant success, it also brings extra pressure and scrutiny. Expectations are raised, and if you fail to live up to them or if LeBron has issues with you, you could find yourself out of a job. Just look at what happened with David Blatt in Cleveland.
If the Lakers underwhelm early in LeBron’s tenure with the team, Walton could find himself on the hot seat. On the other hand, LeBron’s presence could help make Walton’s career as a coach.
