Lakers Rumors: Luke Walton could win coach of the year

The latest Lakers rumors are about how Luke Walton could prove to be the coach of the year.

As the Lakers progress into their new season, there’s plenty to look forward to. Julius Randle is expected to have a big season from both his coach and Magic Johnson so that should speak volumes about his progression.

The more obvious thing fans might get obsessed with is how well Lonzo Ball can play. Also, they’ll be looking to see if the team made the right decision in trading D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets. Because if not, the fans will be the first to feel buyer’s remorse.

Additionally, Brandon Ingram will have his first real shot to steal the spotlight. He’s had plenty of time to adjust to the NBA and, after a mostly underwhelming rookie year, should step up.

Magic Johnson has said that he believes Ingram can be the team’s best scorer, and that should be very exciting to watch with the way that Ball moves the offense.

More from LA Sports Hub

• Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
• LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
• LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
• Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
• LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month

But what about the person responsible for orchestrating all of that?

Luke Walton will only be in his second year at the helm of the Lakers. Last season, he did what he could to salvage D’Angelo Russell’s reputation along with the young core that was still trying to figure things out.

Now he’s got a new point guard to work with, and things could really start to take off. He’ll be responsible for how the Lakers thrive or fall apart in the next few seasons. This season, though, tops all priorities.

The single biggest focus the Lakers should have this season is on chemistry. Nothing could be more important down the road than being able to trust each other on and off the court. Not being selfish also helps, but that’s yet to be seen with how this team plays with Lonzo Ball.

One of the biggest reasons that Luke Walton could become a candidate for coach of the year is the progression this team could make after just one season. A year ago, they won less than 30 games. Now, they’re rumored to be able to sneak into the eighth spot in the Western Conference playoff picture.

With all of this young talent, this season will also tell us how ready LA is for their next superstar. Guys like LeBron James, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook will all hit the free agent market next summer.

Next: Julius Randle Loves Lonzo Ball

And if the Lakers are going to make a move, nothing says more about the team than the coach leading them to the court.