Los Angeles Lakers are facing offseason challenges as they search for a new coach following the dismissal of Darvin Ham after their first-round playoff loss to the Denver Nuggets. The uncertainty surrounding LeBron James adds to their difficulties, as he has the option to opt out of his contract and has not committed to returning to Los Angeles next season.

According to reporter Marc Stein, one coaching candidate, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, is off-limits for the Lakers. Sources suggest that Kidd is set to receive a contract extension from Dallas, making him unavailable to the Lakers. This news comes as Kidd guided the Mavericks to a first-round playoff victory over the Los Angeles Clippers and is poised to lead them in their second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

In addition to Kidd, Tyronn Lue, head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers and who led James to an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, was also expected to be a target for the Lakers. However, reports indicate that the Clippers are looking to sign Lue to an extension.

Despite these setbacks, sources suggest that Lue is still interested in joining the Lakers and could potentially be receptive if given another opportunity. The team’s front office continues its search for a new coach with hopes of bringing back James next season.