Report: Magic, Walton haven't spoken in weeks
The writing appears to be on the wall for Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton.
President of basketball operations Magic Johnson hasn't spoken to Walton in "weeks," and owner Jeanie Buss intends to allow Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka to make the final call on his future, sources told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne.
Buss has repeatedly voiced support for Walton while defending him after criticism from LaVar Ball last season. But last week, she stopped short of guaranteeing Walton's job is safe, deferring to Johnson for the decision.
Walton's relationship with Johnson and Pelinka has never been as warm, sources told Shelburne.
Thank you for the unwavering support. We will get there and it will be sweeter because we went through the tough times together. Luke Walton: “We will get through this and we will be stronger when we do.” #Lakers Family #InLukeWeTrust https://t.co/tSsut2NJlf
— Jeanie Buss (@JeanieBuss) December 31, 2017
Walton joined the Lakers in 2016 following three years as an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors. The 39-year-old guided the club to a 37-44 record this season. Overall, the team has posted a 98-147 record since Walton took over.
The Lakers drafted Walton 32nd overall in 2003. He spent nine seasons with the team and won back-to-back rings (2008-09 and 2009-10).
Los Angeles will miss the playoffs for the sixth straight season.