James Borrego has been floated as a potential candidate for the vacant Los Angeles Lakers head-coaching role.
The former Charlotte Hornets head coach has been working as an assistant with the New Orleans Pelicans.
However, Rob Pelinka could miss out on his second coaching candidate after Dan Hurley turned down the Purple and Gold to remain with the UConn Huskies.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Borrego is emerging as a front-runner for the Cleveland Cavaliers’ vacant head-coaching position.
“James Borrego … he’s getting momentum in Cleveland,” Windhorst reported during Monday’s episode of “Get Up.” “He’s expected to interview there early this week as a potential leading candidate developing with the Cavs.”
Borrego is known for being a talented offensive coach. He would likely need to add a defensive-minded assistant to help bring balance to Cleveland’s roster. However, he has the necessary experience to get the best out of the Cavaliers’ talented roster. Borrego is also known for his innovation and ability to develop young talent.
If Borrego signs with the Cavaliers, it would leave the Lakers drastically short of options. Two of their reported top three candidates would be off the board. JJ Redick would be the only name on that shortlist who would be available. Nevertheless, Redick’s lack of coaching experience is clearly a stumbling point for the Lakers, otherwise he would already be locked in with the franchise.
The coaching search in Los Angeles is turning into a disaster. It’s clear the franchise doesn’t have the pulling power it once had. If Borrego is taken off the board, Pelinka must get creative or risk heading into draft night without a head coach on the staff. Things keep going from bad to worse for the Purple and Gold.
