The Los Angeles Lakers are on the lookout for a new head coach after their disappointing first-round exit in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. Following the firing of former coach Darvin Ham and his staff, the pressure is mounting for the Lakers to find the right candidate to lead the team.

While the Lakers are expected to take their time in the search for a new head coach, they ideally want someone in place before the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft to efficiently plan for the roster. This suggests that the summer could be filled with roster moves for the Lakers, making it crucial to have a coach who can effectively coordinate and adapt to the team's needs.

One name that has emerged as a potential candidate is Kenny Atkinson, currently an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors. Atkinson has an impressive background, having played professionally for 14 years both domestically and internationally before transitioning to coaching.

Starting as an assistant in France, Atkinson later joined the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks as an assistant coach. He then got his shot as a head coach with the Brooklyn Nets, where he showcased his ability to develop young players. Players like D'Angelo Russell, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Caris LeVert flourished under his guidance, leading the Nets to their only playoff appearance during Atkinson's tenure.

Atkinson's strengths lie in his teaching and player development skills. Additionally, he is highly regarded for his offensive schemes, emphasizing ball and man movement, as well as the modern shot profile of 3-pointers and layups. His track record of nurturing young talent bodes well for the Lakers, who have promising players alongside the star duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

However, there are concerns about Atkinson's ability to handle star players. During his time with the Nets, he struggled to command the locker room and failed to build a harmonious relationship with star players like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. This could be a stumbling block for the Lakers, who rely heavily on the leadership and chemistry of their star players.

As the Lakers continue their search for a new head coach, Atkinson's name has surfaced as a potential candidate. The team will need to carefully evaluate his strengths and weaknesses before making a decision. Choosing a coach who can successfully navigate the challenges of coaching a star-studded roster will be crucial for the Lakers as they aim to bounce back and make a deep playoff run in the upcoming seasons.