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Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James’ Pivotal Role in Darvin Ham’s Future, Revealed

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Paolo Songco | Last updated 4/30/24

Now that the season is officially over for the Los Angeles Lakers, the top priority for the organization is to keep LeBron James in LA. The front office is reportedly willing to offer the four-time NBA champ a three-year max extension worth $164 million with LeBron expected to opt out of the final year of his current contract to become an unrestricted free agent.

As it turns out, retaining the services of James could also involve the firing of head coach Darvin Ham.

Los Angeles Lakers News: LeBron James Will Significantly Influence Darvin Ham Decision

According to ClutchPoints’ NBA inside Brett Siegel, the Lakers will put a lot of stock on LeBron’s stance regarding Ham’s future with the team — and rightfully so:

“The idea of moving on from Ham is another influence on James’ decision this offseason, league sources confirmed. Executive Rob Pelinka and owner Jeanie Buss are expected to consult with LeBron, among others, before making a final decision on whether Ham will return for his third season with the Lakers,” read the report.

The report also indicates that “overwhelming belief across league circles is that the Lakers will fire Ham” in favor of a new shot-caller who is capable of leading a LeBron-led LA side to another championship. No names have been floated as of yet.

As for Ham, however, it now appears that his days in Hollywood are numbered.