The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, boasting 17 championships and a passionate fanbase. However, recent years have seen the team struggle to find success, and questions are swirling around the future of head coach Darvin Ham.
While Ham deserves credit for his defensive philosophy and player development, there are several reasons why the Lakers may need to consider a change at the helm.
1. Inconsistent Results: Despite having LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the roster, the Lakers have underperformed under Ham. The team currently sits at 15-14, struggling to find a consistent rhythm and often looking disjointed on both ends of the court.
While injuries have played a role, the Lakers’ inconsistency raises questions about Ham’s ability to adapt and make adjustments throughout the season.
2. Offensive Stagnation: The Lakers’ offense has been one of the most anemic in the league under Ham. The team currently ranks 25th in offensive rating, often relying on isolation plays and struggling to generate quality looks for their shooters. Ham’s offensive system hasn’t maximized the talents of LeBron James or Anthony Davis, and the team’s lack of offensive creativity has been a major concern.
3. Player Development: While some young players like Austin Reaves have shown flashes of potential, the overall development of the Lakers’ young core has been underwhelming. Ham hasn’t been able to consistently unlock the potential of players like Talen Horton-Tucker and Thomas Bryant, and the lack of progress from the team’s younger players is a cause for concern.
4. Rotational Questions: Ham’s rotations have been a source of frustration for fans and analysts alike. The constant tinkering with lineups has disrupted the team’s chemistry and prevented players from finding a consistent rhythm. The lack of clarity in roles and playing time has also impacted player morale and confidence.
5. Lack of Championship Caliber Adjustments: The Lakers are a team built to win now, and championship-caliber adjustments are crucial for their success. Ham’s inexperience as a head coach has shown at times, as he’s struggled to make the necessary adjustments in late-game situations or adapt to different defensive schemes. This lack of adaptability could prove costly in the playoffs, where every possession matters.
Is it Time for a Change?
While it’s still early in the season, the Lakers’ struggles and the aforementioned issues raise questions about Ham’s suitability for the job. The team’s championship aspirations may require a more experienced and proven coach who can get the most out of their star players, develop their young talent, and make the necessary adjustments to compete for a title.
The decision to move on from Ham will be a difficult one, but it’s a decision the Lakers may need to make if they want to get back to the top of the NBA mountain.