After leading the Warriors to a 39-4 record to start the season, Luke Walton has been a hot head-coaching candidate around the NBA.
On Friday, Walton’s former team from his playing days, the L.A. Lakers, snatched the Warriors’ assistant off the market for next season and beyond, signing Walton to a multi-year deal.
Walton was reportedly the only candidate the Lakers interviewed, according to ESPN. The Kings, Rockets and Knicks all reportedly asked for permission to interview Walton.
Walton was drafted 32nd overall in 2003 by the Lakers and won two titles with L.A. in 2009 and 2010.
From the Lakers:
Earlier today, the Los Angeles Lakers and Luke Walton reached an agreement on a multi-year contract for Walton to become the next Head Coach of the team, it was announced by General Manager Mitch Kupchak. Walton will begin his new duties at the conclusion of the Golden State Warriors season.
“We’re excited to bring Luke back to Los Angeles, where we feel he’s going to start an outstanding coaching career,” said Kupchak. “He’s one of the brightest young coaching minds in the game and we feel fortunate that he’ll be leading the on-court future of our team.”
