Should Pacers call back ex-Lakers Vogel?

Following the humiliating season, Los Angles Lakers fired coach Frank Vogel, who helped the Lakers claim the champions title two seasons back.

While the move was not unexpected, it was panned by fans and commentators alike, especially given that the Lakers’ difficulties are mostly due to their poor roster composition, which included putting together a squad full of non-defenders surrounding a defensive-minded coach.

Frank Vogel has coached his final game for the Lakers, a decision that’s expected to be shared with him as soon as Monday, sources tell ESPN. Lakers’ search expected to be lengthy and expansive with no clear initial frontrunner.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 11, 2022

Worse, the termination was announced before the team’s season finale versus Denver, throwing even Vogel off.

Frank Vogel responds to reports that he will be fired as Lakers head coach. pic.twitter.com/BjzkysxqQE

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 11, 2022

Should Pacers reunite with Vogel?

Despite the cloud that has been put over him this season, Frank Vogel is a respected NBA coach known for his stifling defensive methods.

Vogel is the second-winningest coach in Indiana Pacers history, and his time with the Blue and Gold produced some of the team’s greatest successful runs, including two trips to the NBA Finals in 2013 and 2014.

Vogel should have little trouble finding another position after a difficult tenure in Los Angeles. As a result, the Pacers should inquire about his availability—and willingness—to accept a less prominent role in Indiana and assist the team in regaining ground as it prepares for the future.

The Pacers have battled mightily on defense this season, cruising to a measly 28th-ranked defensive rating. They clearly need a lot of help in this area.

While coaching requires functional motors, Vogel could create the basis for Rick Carlisle and the rest of the defensive staff, which has been sorely lacking since Dan Burke left town.

Vogel could be enticed by working in a familiar setting, especially given his deficiencies will be mitigated in a lesser role, but only Myles Turner has played under him among the current squad.