Former Lakers HC Frank Vogel Reportedly Joins Steve Kerr's Warriors Staff Amid LeBron James Rumors

The Golden State Warriors are reportedly hiring former Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel as an assistant on Steve Kerr's staff, per ESPN's Shams Charania.

NBA reporter Marc Stein previously reported that Vogel was "poised" to join Kerr's staff.

Vogel's connection to LeBron James cannot be ignored given Golden State's pursuit of the veteran superstar in free agency. The two were paired together for three seasons on the Lakers, winning a bubble title during the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2019-20 season.

The 53-year-old also had head-coaching tenures with the Indiana Pacers (2010-11 to 2015-16), Orlando Magic (2015-16 to 2017-18) and the Phoenix Suns (2023-24), going 250-181 in his career with eight playoff appearances and a championship.

Vogel is known for his defensive acumen as a coach and he'll likely head up Golden State's defensive scheme in the 2026-27 season. Assuming Draymond Green returns, expect the fiery veteran to be employed in interesting ways under Vogel.

But the main intrigue, of course, is whether Vogel can help entice James to the Bay Area. While their run together in Los Angeles only lasted three years, there was mutual respect between the pair.

"I respect Frank as a coach and as a man in our partnership that we've had over a few years here has been nothing but just candid," James told reporters when Vogel was fired following the 2021-22 season. "Great conversations. He's a guy that gives everything to the game. Prepared us every single night along with his coaching staff as well. You've got to give those guys a lot of credit, too."

Nobody knows where James will end up or what deciding factor will ultimately inspire his decision. But having a guy like Vogel on the coaching staff can't hurt.