NBA insider Anthony Irwin reports that Lakers head coach Darvin Ham is likely to keep his job even if the team loses to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the 2024 playoffs. Despite their struggles and a sweep by the Nuggets in the 2023 Western Conference Finals, Ham retains the support of owner Jeanie Buss.
However, sources indicate that some players, including LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, prefer assistant coach Phil Handy over Ham. Ham’s defensive tactics, particularly his drop coverage, have also drawn criticism from top defender Anthony Davis.
Despite these internal issues, the Lakers have played better since starting Russell, Reaves, Hachimura, LeBron, and Davis together. However, LeBron’s future with the team remains uncertain as he approaches free agency this summer.
As the Lakers prepare for the playoffs, Ham’s job security seems stable for now. However, if the team underperforms again, his position may be reevaluated.
