Some recent leaks put Frank Vogel on the line for the disappointing season the Lakers are signing. Around this rumor, as is often the case in LeBron James’ teams, it was added that the coach was not quite to the liking of the four-time MVP. This is why James was asked in his last meeting with the Los Angeles press, and he decided to take blame instead of pouring them on your technician. “As his players, we must do a better job.”
LeBron took advantage not only to exonerate Vogel, but to reinforce his position as coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Criticism is inherent in our work. Frank is mentally strong and has a great technical team behind him. We are not a franchise that is very affected by gossip because it comes in the nature of the team. Frank is not worried about what is said and neither are we », agreed James.
Vogel himself expressed his opinion on the exit rumors that surround him, appealing that, after 10 years as head coach in the league, they are no strangers to him. “It is true that being in the Lakers the matter takes on a national character and affects a larger fan base. But it is nothing new for any coach in this league ”declared the coach.
Background in a relationship of doubts
Prior to his 2019 hiring, Vogel was not the priority of Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss, who tried to get around Tyronn Lue earlier because of an alleged preference on the part of James and Davis. Finally, Los Angeles management chose the former Orlando and Indiana coach as the best candidate among those available. A year later, Vogel confirmed the confidence with a ring that should have strengthened him in his position but that has only served to extend his contract for one year. This is already indicative that Los Angeles does not have them all with him. Put like this on the table, it is logical that before a bad streak like the current one, all the lights point to his figure.
(Cover photo by Harry How / Getty Images)