Last year Alvin Gentry left the Warriors staff to coach full time. Now Luke Walton has agreed to a 5- year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Warriors couldn't be happier for him.
Warriors general manager GM Bob Myers spoke to the Star Tribune about Walton's departure for Los Angeles:
“We are thrilled for Luke. This is a tremendous opportunity for him to return home and serve as head coach for one of the most storied franchises in sports. Luke has done an incredible job during his two-year stint with our team and has played a significant role in our success.”
Head coach Steve Kerr didn't hesitate to let his support for Walton be known:
“I'm incredibly happy for Luke, As we witnessed earlier this season, he has all of the intangibles necessary to be an outstanding head coach in this league, including a terrific understanding of the game the ability to communicate with a wide range of people. He's certainly ready for this opportunity and I'm confident he'll do a great job with the Lakers once our season is complete.”
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Warriors players also shared their feelings on Walton's new gig. Draymond Green specifically spoke out on Walton's standing in the Coach of the Year voting. Kerr won the award and Walton finished tied for ninth. Green said of Walton's finish for the award:
“It is impressive for an assistant coach, I think he should have been higher.”
Klay Thompson also commented, summing it up with how many NBA fans feel:
Klay Thompson: "I can’t believe Luke Walton is the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, I feel like I was just watching him play."
— Bill Oram (@billoram) April 30, 2016
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