Tag: Mike D’Antoni

Influence of John Lucas reportedly intimidated Mike D’Antoni

Lucas has a higher role under new coach Stephen Silas than he did under Mike D’Antoni, and his key relationships could be a big reason.

John Lucas will have a higher role next season as the lead assistant for new Houston Rockets coach Stephen Silas than he did as the director of player development for former coach Mike D’Antoni.

One reason could be the relationship between the 66-year-old Lucas, a former NBA player and head coach, with superstar James Harden.

Harden reportedly remains committed to the Rockets moving forward, and a new story by Kelly Iko, Shams Charania, and Sam Amick of The Athletic cites Lucas as one of the potential reasons why.

“Lucas has been able to reach Houston’s stars in unique ways over the last few seasons he’s been with the franchise,” they write.

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Lucas has worked with Harden since joining D’Antoni’s staff prior to the 2016-17 season. However, that close relationship may have been threatening to the veteran head coach. From the story:

D’Antoni leaned heavily on Lucas in a similar aspect during their time together, although at times he became intimidated by Lucas’ popularity and influence, sources said.

Unlike the 69-year-old D’Antoni, Silas is 47 and a first-time head coach. That could potentially make for a better staff balance next season.

“Getting Lucas [to stay] is a home run for me,” Silas said at his introductory press conference in Houston earlier this month.

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