Luke Walton is apparently very tenacious. After his layoff at the Sacramento Kings in November 2021, it didn’t take long for him to find work again. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, he joins the Cleveland Cavaliers as an assistant coach.
A career full of ups and downs
At just 42 years old, Walton already has plenty of experience in the NBA. As a player, he won two rings with the Lakers from Kobe Bryant in a minor role. The winger also ended his career at the Cavaliers, still at the end of rotation, after his transfer.
Staff member of Steve Kerr from 2014 to 2016, he helped the Golden State Warriors title in 2015. The following year, he replaced the injured Kerr to start the team’s season with a historic 24-0 record. A feat – probably more that of the players than his own – which earned him to be named coach of the month despite his interim status. Probably the best years of his coaching career.
This experience later allowed him to become head coach of the Lakers for three years. Then that of the Kings for the next two years. In total, Walton has a record of 190 wins and 282 losses as a head coach and has had more lows than highs. Admittedly, Walton was not always successful. But we must still recognize that his CV is full for an assistant.
Cavaliers in full swing
This year marked the explosion of the Cavaliers. Powered by the draft ofEvan Mobleyas well as the progress of Darius Garland et Jarrett AllenCleveland has entered a new dimension.
Without the injury of Allen, All-Star this season, they would have undoubtedly reached the playoffs. Their first since leaving LeBron James. In 2023, with a healthy group, the Cavs can hope for a good run in the postseason. They might even be able to claim contender status. And for that, any reinforcement is good to take.
Sous J.B. Bickerstaff, who signed a contract extension in December, Luke Walton will try to bring his stone to the building. His experience as a champion, as a player and a coach, could be beneficial to this young group. At the head of a franchise, Walton has rarely shown good things. However, his record as an assistant is rather encouraging.
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