Although it isn’t surprising that new general managers bring their own coaches when they take over the job, Sacramento Kings’ Monte McNair decided not to go down this route. Instead, McNair gave a vote of confidence to Luke Walton and confirmed he would remain the team’s head coach for the 2020/21 NBA season.
Talking with reporters during an introductory press conference on Wednesday, McNair said that Walton left a really good impression on him during recent conversations.
“I’ve got to know him the last few days; we’ve had some good conversations,” said McNair said. “I’ve heard great things. So far I think we’ve had a great rapport.”
Despite being hired by the former GM Vlade Divac and failing to get the Sacramento to playoffs, Walton will continue to do his job, according to McNair.
“Luke’s going to be our coach next year,” he added. “I’m really excited to work with him. I think we’re aligned with our vision, and we’re gonna start implementing it.”
Luke Walton joined Sacramento Kings ahead of the 2019/20 season, after previously spending three seasons with Los Angeles Lakers. Walton inherited a team rich with young talent but failed to make a significant buzz in the Western Conference. He went 31-41 in his first season in Sacramento while Kings missed on playoffs for the fourth consecutive season.
