Stephen A. Smith thinks Monty Williams should ‘definitely’ be in consideration of Lakers’ head coaching job after getting fired from Pistons

Monty Williams has a notable coaching history, having won the NBA Coach of the Year award twice.

Stephen A. Smith thinks Monty Williams should ‘definitely’ be in consideration of Lakers’ head coaching job after getting fired from Pistons

Stephen A. Smith and Monty Williams

Stephen A. Smith suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers should consider Monty Williams as their next head coach, following his recent firing from the Detroit Pistons. Smith believes that Williams’ availability presents a significant opportunity for the Lakers to improve their team dynamics and performance.

While there has been discussion about JJ Redick being the next head coach, Smith feels that Monty Williams should also be a candidate for the job. He acknowledges the importance of Lakers’ owner Jeanie Buss, General Manager Rob Pelinka, and Executive Kurt Rambis in the decision-making process.

I was joking around about him earlier, but I respect him too. So listen, they're all going to be a part of the process and we'll see what happens. And, you know, I think Monty Williams definitely should be a candidate for that job.
Stephen A. Smith said on ESPN’s First Take

Monty Williams has a notable coaching history, having won the NBA Coach of the Year award twice and led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021. His experience and coaching abilities could be beneficial for the Lakers. 

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On the other hand, the Lakers are also considering JJ Redick, a former NBA player with no prior head coaching experience, which represents a significant risk. The Lakers’ decision on their next head coach is critical for their future success. 

Hiring Monty Williams could provide the team with a seasoned coach who has a proven ability to lead and develop a competitive team. Alternatively, opting for Redick might bring a new approach, though it carries the uncertainty associated with a first-time coach.

Lakers look past Monty Williams, JJ Redick emerges as front-runner for head coaching job

The Los Angeles Lakers have no plans to consider Monty Williams as a candidate for their head coaching position, according to Shams Charania. This is despite the team’s interest in him in 2019, when they ultimately hired Frank Vogel instead. Vogel went on to win an NBA championship with the Lakers, but was later replaced by Darvin Ham, who was fired after two seasons.

The Lakers’ search for a new head coach has been slow and deliberate, with only three candidates receiving significant attention: Dan Hurley, James Borrego, and JJ Redick. Hurley turned down a lucrative offer to remain at UConn, while Borrego has interviewed twice for the job without making much progress. 

Redick’s lack of coaching experience makes him a risky choice, but the Lakers seem to be leaning towards him. He officially interviewed for the job on Saturday, having previously met with general manager Rob Pelinka at the scouting combine in Chicago.

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