It wasn’t seen as likely, but Pat Riley left no doubt that he’s not going to be returning to the Los Angeles Lakers in any capacity.
The Miami Heat president, who spent nine seasons as the Laker coach during the Showtime era, said Saturday that he intends to finish his career with the Heat and has no intention of even thinking about taking the team president role vacated by Magic Johnson.
Pat Riley on whether he will finish with the Heat, in light of Lakers situation:
"Absolutely."
— Five Reasons Sports Network (@5ReasonsSports) April 13, 2019
Riley says he "had a good conversation with Magic after he stepped down. I'm sure they will work it out. But I don't want to be part of that….."
After Heat: "I want to be the consultant emeritus of doing nothing. Is there a job like that? I think Andy has one."
— Five Reasons Sports Network (@5ReasonsSports) April 13, 2019
Riley talked to Magic, but said he won't go to Lakers. He says this is where he will finish his career. "I am not going to comment on another team's misfortunes. There is no doubt I have a history with that team, a lot of friends in the organization."
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 13, 2019
Riley is 74, and probably doesn’t want to uproot himself and head out for a new job that’s much more pressure-filled and visible than the one he has in Miami. He’ll comment on Laker matters from time to time, but his work with that organization is over.
