Lakers News: Luke Walton responds to Lamar Odom coaching interest

Lamar Odom will probably go down as an all-time favorite among the Los Angeles Lakers fan base. So, a desire for him to be around what appears to be a fun and promising group is understandable. Don’t let that cloud anyone’s judgement on what’s best for everyone involved, though: his health.

When a TMZ video made its way across the internet, speculation erupted about what it might mean for both Odom and the Lakers. Frankly, Silver Screen & Roll wanted to make absolutely sure the interest was genuine so as not to risk painting Odom into a corner. He has enough going on in his life right now as he tries to recover from personal issues, and more than deserves that space.

Before their game against the Blazers on Tuesday, however, Luke Walton responded to questions about the video and had this to say, via Tania Ganguli of the L.A. Times.

“Anyone knows that Lamar, when he’s right he’s one of the most likable people they’ve been around," Walton said. "I think he has great knowledge of the game and a great way of communicating.”

Walton probably sees Odom as a brother, given their time on the Lakers together. If anyone understands how important it is for Odom to get right before undertaking this kind of responsibility, it’s him. So, while it would obviously be a great next chapter in Odom’s life, the key is to take however much time he can to get right. This isn’t to say it won’t happen, but that it doesn’t seem like it’s going to anytime soon.

Again, all the thoughts and prayers to Odom as he continues his recovery. That’s all that really matters, here.