Sam Cassell. Brian Westerholt-USA TODAY Sports

Celtics assistant, Lakers target aims to be an NBA head coach

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/17/24

Sam Cassell is reportedly a candidate for the Los Angeles Lakers vacant head coaching role. He is currently contracted to the Boston Celtics as a lead assistant to Joe Mazzulla.

Since joining Boston, Cassell has helped instill an offensive and defensive system that has the Celtics ranking in the top three in both categories.

Cassell, a former NBA champion, has been an assistant coach for the last 15 years. He's held roles with the Washington Wizards, L.A. Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers and Celtics. He is one of the most respected assistants in the NBA.

When speaking on a recent episode of the "Point Game" podcast with former All-Star guard John Wall, Cassell admitted that he aims to become an NBA head coach in the future.

"I want an opportunity to be a head coach in this league," Cassell said. "... Because I know I can do it. I just want an opportunity. I'm not begging for it. I just know if I get an opportunity, I’m going to be a good head coach. I understand what it takes to get a player going, what a player wants to hear."

Sam Cassell - who is a candidate for the Lakers job - says the last thing he wants to accomplish is becoming an NBA head coach!

“I just know if I get an opportunity, I’m gonna be a good head coach. I understand what it takes to get a player going…”

[via @pointgamepod ] pic.twitter.com/31zB0TG0Mo
— BASKETBALL ON (@BASKETBALLonX) May 17, 2024

The Celtics have already lost one of their top assistants this season. Charles Lee will join the Charlotte Hornets during the summer after being selected as the team's next head coach.

As such, Boston could be bracing for yet another assistant leaving for a bigger opportunity, though Cassell does face stern competition for the Lakers' job.

JJ Redick and James Borrego have both been mentioned as potential candidates who will interview with the franchise. A lot has been said regarding Redick's position within the franchise's search.

Nevertheless, there will be few candidates with a better resume and pedigree than Cassell. He's paid his dues. He's done things the right way. He has the respect, experience and big name to help command the Lakers locker room.

Still, if Los Angeles decides to go in a different direction, there will undoubtedly be other teams interested in Cassell's services, especially if he helps the Celtics win a championship this season.

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