Do you recall DeMarre Carroll? Carroll has been active in the NBA even after his playing career ended. He is currently an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers. Carroll is another person who may soon be in motion. Shane Young of Forbes Sports believes that Carroll is a name to watch out for, especially since his previous employer, Mike Budenholzer, is now scheduled to coach the Phoenix Suns starting in the 2024–25 NBA season.
DeMarre Carroll is a name I would look out for on Mike Budenholzer’s staff. I believe Budenholzer would want to add him, depending on whether the Lakers’ next coach wants to keep him around. Carroll participated in the Bucks’ 2022–23 player development program.
Los Angeles Lakers Assistant to Move to Phoenix Soon?
Young is only conjecturing, of course, but Carroll’s relationship with Budenholzer is significant. In addition to serving as a member of Budenholzer’s coaching staff while playing for the Atlanta Hawks, Carroll also served as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks coaching staff in the 2022–2023 NBA season.
From 2013 to 2015, Carroll played for the Hawks for two seasons, averaging 11.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.4 steals in 143 games while in Atlanta. He was a reliable role player for the Hawks despite not being a standout player; in fact, he tied for 15th place in the 2014–15 Defensive Player of the Year voting.
Carroll’s knowledge may aid Budenholzer’s efforts to create a culture in Phoenix. Carroll is still with the Lakers for the time being, though, while the organization continues to look for a head coach.