Windhorst: Lakers' Ham Didn't Save Job with Clippers Win Because He's Not on Hot Seat

Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham is not on the hot seat despite reports of growing frustrations among players.

"Darvin Ham is not getting fired," ESPN's Brian Windhorst said on the Hoop Collective. "There's been a number of stories in the last few days that have emerged about player or agent frustration at the head coach. And, I agree, that there are many examples in NBA history where player frustration with the head coach has led to the head coach being replaced.

"But, in this case, the organization—at least for now—fully supports Darvin Ham. And, of the players who might be frustrated at Darvin Ham, I don't think the players to have the power to voice their frustration are in that space yet."

The Lakers snapped a four-game losing streak Sunday night against the Los Angeles Clippers. Coming into the game, there was speculation—unfounded, according to Windhorst—that the Lakers may fire Ham if they lost to the Clippers.

Ham is in his second season as Lakers coach, and his job performance hasn't been particularly inspiring. The team went 43-39 during the 2022-23 regular season and is 18-19 after Sunday night. If it weren't for a surprising run to the Western Conference Finals during last year's playoffs, the odds of Ham being fired might be higher.

Sam Amick of The Athletic reported Ham also has a strong relationship with managing governor Jeanie Buss, who has been his biggest champion.

"I told you, man, I'm just thankful that I've got that support from Jeanie, with her always encouraging me, asking me 'What do I need? Is everything great?'" Ham told Amick.

The patience with the supporting cast next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, however, may be wearing thin. Don't be surprised if the Lakers are among the NBA's most active teams heading into February's trade deadline. They have already been heavily linked to a trade for Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine and will almost certainly kick the tires on other high-profile names who become available.