Phil Jackson advising Lakers in coaching search

Former Lakers coach Phil Jackson is consulting the team in its search for a new coach, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported, as shared by Talkin’ NBA (video link). Los Angeles is seeking its 28th head coach in franchise history after firing Frank Vogel last month.

As Wojnarowski notes, Jackson also advised the Lakers in the search that landed Vogel. Jackson coached the Lakers for 11 years, winning five NBA championships with the franchise. His last season serving as head coach was the 2010-11 campaign.

Los Angeles appears to be taking its time in the search, rather than interviewing several candidates at one time, Wojnarowski reports. The team is still expected to consider multiple names for the position, including Bucks assistant coach Darvin Ham.

The Lakers missed the playoffs this season and finished with a disappointing 33-49 record. Injuries to key players (including LeBron James and Anthony Davis) prevented the team from building the chemistry needed to succeed, though management clearly believes coaching also played a role.