Juwan Howard Passes Up Lakers Coaching Gig

Juwan Howard #5 of the Miami Heat celebrates with LeBron James #6

Although rumors are buzzing that multi-titled coach Phil Jackson is helping in the coaching search and is allegedly planning to trade LeBron James, the latest name is ironically associated with the four-time NBA champion.

Juwan Howard, someone who has been making headlines in the college basketball scene, was allegedly a candidate to replace Frank Vogel.

However, the 49-year-old reportedly declined a Lakers' overture and preferred to remain with his alma mater, the University of Michigan Wolverines, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported.

Furthermore, the fact that his two sons will be playing next season likely contributed to Howard’s decision to pass up the chance to coach the decorated ballclub.

Howard would have made sense considering he and James are former teammates.

Both played together with the Miami Heat from 2012 to 2013 and won two titles together.

In addition, Howard allegedly had the inside track to be at the top of the Lakers head coaching list, assuming that he wanted the position.

With another name struck off the list, the Lakers are believed to be targeting Milwaukee Bucks assistant coach Darvin Ham.

Los Angeles is allegedly in the second round of interviews to fill up their head coaching vacancy position.

Aside from Ham, also being linked to the Lakers are Terry Stotts and Kenny Atkinson, currently serving as assistant coaches with the Golden State Warriors.

The Lakers are believed to be looking for a coach who can get along with James.

However, there are also murmurs that the next head coach needs to find a way to maximize Russell Westbrook.

The status of the 2017 NBA MVP remains uncertain although Westbrook has a player option with the Lakers.

If he does opt-in, Westbrook would be due $47 million for the 2022-23 NBA season.

Trade scenarios have been suggested, but no team appears willing to absorb Westbrook’s huge contract.

Waiving the 33-year-old All-Star is reportedly not an option, such is allegedly not a viable option according to a report from Lakers Nation.