Jan 19, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Kevin Huerter (3) (left) talks with assistant coach Chris Jent center prior to the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at State Farm Arena. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James already got a chance to run it back with J.R. Smith and Dion Waiters in 2020. Now the Los Angeles Lakers will be feeling like James’ Cleveland Cavaliers of old in a different way.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Saturday that the Lakers are hiring Atlanta Hawks assistant Chris Jent to be an assistant under new head coach Darvin Ham. Wojnarowski adds that Ham recruited Jent over the course of the past week to lead his coaching staff.

The 52-year-old Jent had served as an assistant for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2006 to 2011. There he also worked as James’ personal shooting coach, helping James develop a 3-point shot and hit on a still career-high 78% from the free throw line in the 2008-09 season.

The first-year head coach Ham got rid of some notable Lakers assistants upon his arrival. Now it appears that Ham will be relying on Jent, the former James coach, as the right-hand man next season.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Victor Wembanyama's latest honor puts another spotlight on his greatness
Lamar Jackson reportedly made significant physical change for 2024
Dolphins safety appears to take a shot at former DC
Ryan Leaf goes off on top NFL insider, accuses him of being a fraud
Report: TNT is still fighting to save its NBA rights
Lightning re-acquire defenseman from Predators
Steelers star DT blasts reporter's 'bold face lie'
Deadline for LeBron James' contract decision revealed
Jets HC Robert Saleh shares significant update on Aaron Rodgers' health
Steelers add another veteran to running back room
Charvarius Ward names positive 49ers can take from Super Bowl loss
Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa reportedly makes physical change amid contract talks
Do Oilers need more from Connor McDavid to get to Stanley Cup Final?
All-Rookie teams show gems available all over draft
The NBA has not witnessed this much parity in 50 years
Knicks expected to be 'aggressive' in upgrading their roster
Drew Bledsoe offers advice for Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye
2024 AFC revenge games: Brothers, 'Stefon Diggs Bowl' to take center stage
2024 NFC revenge games: Which game should Cowboys, others have circled?
How All-Star Race victory could turn Joey Logano's season around

Want more sports news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.