(Fwrd Axis) — The Los Angeles Lakers have fired Frank Vogel as their head coach following one of the most disappointing seasons in NBA history.
Vogel had one more year remaining on his current contract and departs the organization with a 127-98 record in his three seasons.
“Today is not going to be a day of finger-pointing and unwinding all the specific reasons,” general manager Rob Pelinka said. “We just felt organizationally, at the highest level, it was time for a new voice. … That’s not to say anything against the incredible accomplishments that Frank Vogel has had. He was a great coach here, and he’s going to go on to be a great coach somewhere else.”
Thank you, Coach. pic.twitter.com/8eb4Ia9ZqI
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 11, 2022
The Lakers finished the 2021-22 season with a 33-49 record, failing to qualify for the play-in tournament. Many of the NBA experts had picked Los Angeles to make the NBA Finals with a roster that include stars such as LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook.
“This was a disappointing Lakers season at every level,” Pelinka said. “In the face of disappointment, our fans expect more, and that’s in every facet. It starts in the front office led by me, and our ability to construct the right roster. It starts with the coaches holding players accountable and making sure there’s on-court execution.”
Pelinka said he may not have a new coach by the time the NBA Draft rolls around in June and the search will begin shortly. Possible names that have been linked to the job include Mike D’Antoni, current Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder, and Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers.
“I think the front office will do whatever it takes to help this ballclub become a better ballclub from top to bottom,” James said. “Ask me my opinion, I’m going to give my opinion. But at the end of the day, they’re going to make the decision that they feel is best for the franchise.”
