The Los Angeles Lakers have fired Frank Vogel, the coach who led them to the NBA title in 2020.
“I have a tremendous amount of respect for Frank both on and off the court,” Lakers vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka said in a statement. “Frank is a great coach and a good man. We will forever be grateful to him for his work in guiding us to the 2019-20 NBA championship. This is an incredibly difficult decision to make, but one we feel is necessary at this point. All of us here wish Frank and his wonderful family all the best for the future.”
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Vogel’s dismissal was unsurprising after the Lakers, who had been expected to compete for the title again this season, missed the playoffs. The team finished this season in the bottom 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency.
However, the 48-year-old could not be blamed entirely for the Lakers’ problems. The team’s two best players, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, rarely played together as both battled injuries. Meanwhile, the roster he was given was notable for aging stars such as Russell Westbrook (33), Carmelo Anthony (37), Rajon Rondo (36) and Dwight Howard (36) past their prime.
Many believed James wielded too much influence in building the team but on Monday, the 18-time All-Star said he let the front office decide such matters.
“I think the front office will do whatever it takes to help this ballclub become a better ballclub from top to bottom,” James said. “Ask me my opinion, I’m going to give my opinion. But at the end of the day, they’re going to make the decision that they feel is best for the franchise.”
James was speaking before Vogel’s firing was formally announced, However, he paid tribute to the coach when asked about his thoughts on the man he won his fourth NBA title with.
“I respect Frank as a coach and as a man,” James said. “At the end of the day I don’t know what’s going to happen with Frank and him being here, but I have nothing but respect for him.”
Vogel compiled a 127-98 in his three seasons with the Lakers. He also coached the Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic before his arrival in Los Angeles.