New Kings general manager commits to Luke Walton as coach

When Sacramento Kings general manager Vlade Divac stepped down from his position last month, The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that head coach Luke Walton was safe. 

New general manager Monte McNair, announced by the Kings last Thursday, reiterated that fact during his introductory press conference on Wednesday, per the Associated Press (h/t ESPN):

"I've got to know him the last few days; we've had some good conversations.

"I've heard great things. So far I think we've had a great rapport. Luke's going to be our coach next year. I'm really excited to work with him. I think we're aligned with our vision, and we're gonna start implementing it."

Walton mutually parted ways with the Los Angeles Lakers in April 2019 after he tallied a 98-148 record in three seasons with that organization. The Kings finished the pandemic-altered 2019-20 campaign at 31-41 under the 40-year-old. 

The Kings remain in the middle of a 14-year playoff drought, meaning patience likely won't be a virtue for McNair as it concerns his head coach.