Halftime Hype

With every passing day it become more apparent that the Timberwolves may, indeed, sign Kurt Rambis as their head coach. Everybody knows that he is more than capable of coaching a team. When the Zen Master just couldn't make it, the former Lakers forward was always the go-to guy. Back in the 90s, Rambis also was interim coach after Del Harris - and before Phil. But did we really see this coming? Rambis taking over McHale, the same guy who clotheslined him in the 80s? And Rambis isn't the only Lakers assistant who may have a head coaching position in the future. Brian Shaw, a former Laker himself, has also undergone negotiations with teams but so far, to no avail. Of course, in the warm and sunny L.A. this comes as an inconvenient truth.

Rambis has been recruited for the head role before. Only a couple of years ago, the Sacramento Kings examined Kurt. For whatever reason, things didn't work out. However, fast-forward to 2009, and he the job and was offered a two-year contract. In the world of sports, though, rejections are common. Two years was too little committment and just wouldn't due. Plus, he wanted more moo-lah. This summer, Rambis has also had talks with the Sixers about filling their vacany, but that didn't get anywhere. Now, the Los Angeles Times is practically reporting that Rambis is all but gone.



This move has a larger impact on the Lakers than many would expect. First of all, Phil Jackson controversially confessed that the idea of co-coaching had "some merit to it". Had the NBA season started immediately after he said that, he would've co-coached with Rambis. Who would he co-coach with now? None of the other assistant coaches are really known for their head coaching abilities. We all know Frank Hamblen isn't fit for the job after how he blew off half the Lakers' season in 2005. Jim Cleamons head coached the entire 96-97 season for the Mavs and lead them to a sub-par 24-58 (.293 winning percentage) record. And we don't really know much about Brian Shaw, a favorite among the players, who's been asisstant coach of the Lake Show since his appointment in the 04-05 season. That said, the Lakers probably won't fill Rambis' position. Oh, and the concept of co-coaching isn't looking so bright.

The Lakers should also consider these ongoing talks with Rambis as a wake-up call. In addition to having the best coach in the league, they also have another well-respected assistant in Shaw. Brian can relate to the players well, especially since he played for fourteen seasons and played his last game only six years ago. Unlike many other (assistant) coaches in the league, Shaw also knows what it takes to win, as he was a member of three championship teams and interestingly enough, was part of the gold medal 1986 Olympic team.


The reason for all of this is to prove that the Lakers should start working on a shortlist. You know, always be aware of a few candidates for a coaching position. What if Shaw and Rambis leave? Then, the front office will at least have to hire one assistant. Kuptchak, just make sure you stay focused. If not, the Lakers may not meet their expectations, or just the same, their potential.