Lakers Coach News & Rumors 2014: Mike D’Antoni Resigns After Less Than Two Seasons

Mike D'Antoni, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, has reportedly resigned after being with the team for almost two seasons, in a report by ESPN.

D'Antoni did not have the best of opportunities upon taking the reins, since he had to deal with a number of stars on the bench like Bryant and Nash. In a span of almost two years under Mike, the Lakers managed a 67-87 record. During the 2013-2014 regular season, he had to shuffle players and attempt to keep the team afloat.

There were already talks that D'Antoni would be fired or exit the Lakers after its worst season in a span of five decades. The Lakers closed the season with a terrible 27-55 record. It was also known that Mike did not have the best relationship with a number of players on the team, notably Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash. Kobe allegedly expressed his interest in wanting to play for another coach. Kobe would never leave the Lakers, so it was evident that should Jerry Buss choose between the two, Mike would have to take the fall.

According to Sporting News, general manager of the Lakers, Mitch Kupchak, said, "Given the circumstances, I don't know that anybody could have done a better job than Mike did the past two seasons. We thank Mike for the work ethic, professionalism & positive attitude that he brought to the team every day. We wish him the best of luck."

The Lakers is expected to start searching for a new head coach soon, while the other teams face off in the playoffs. D'Antoni's contract provides him with one more season with the Lakers. The team, however, did not want him to coach his final year so Mike decided to leave and look for a coaching job elsewhere. His resignation warrants him $4 million from the team.