Walton shakes off LaVar scrutiny, cites front office support

Luke Walton isn't giving LaVar Ball the time of day after the founder of Big Baller Brand blasted the Los Angeles Lakers head coach, alleging that he's lost the team in the midst of a nine-game losing skid.

It isn't the first time LaVar has publicly pointed the finger at Walton for the team's struggles, but the Lakers head coach says he isn't fearing for his job security over the criticism, citing a positive relationship with the club's front office as reassurance and a hope they will somehow quiet the outspoken father.

"I know they have my back. ... My concerns are with coaching my team and prepping for games and working with what gives us the best chance to win a game," Walton said at practice Sunday, courtesy of Bill Oram of the Southern California News Group. "I know our front office and organization has my back and they'll do whatever they have to do on their end.

"I'm not spending my time trying to figure out what they're all doing about it. I just know they'll take care of it."

Though Walton isn't bothered by LaVar's remarks, he's mindful of their potential effect on Ball's son Lonzo, who returned to the Lakers' starting lineup Saturday after missing six games with a sprained shoulder.

"I'm fine with it. It doesn't bother me. My only concern with any of it it is for 'Zo," Walton said. "As long as 'Zo is fine with it and 'Zo can come in and play, and it doesn't affect mine and his relationship, then it doesn't bother me at all."

Given a chance to distance himself from his father's comments earlier in the day, however, Lonzo didn't exactly give his coach a glowing review, stating "I'll play for anybody" when asked if he enjoyed playing under Walton.