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New Lakers coach Vogel not worried about having Kidd on staff

Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Frank Vogel isn't sweating over the idea of Jason Kidd potentially stealing his job.

The Los Angeles Lakers officially introduced their new head coach to the media Monday and the former Indiana Pacers and Orlando Magic bench boss took the opportunity to address the elephant in the room, denying that he has any concerns about having Kidd on his coaching staff.

"I really don't give that a second thought," Vogel said, according to ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk. "You can say that about every coach in the league about their assistant coaches. It happens from time to time. I believe if you treat people with the right respect and do the job at the highest level, build an environment of positivity and collaboration, you can't worry about that stuff.

"You can't worry about looking over your shoulder. You got to worry about getting good damn coaches and that is how I feel about this hire."

Concern over Kidd usurping Vogel likely stems from the controversy surrounding the end of Kidd's tenure as head coach of the Brooklyn Nets in 2014. He reportedly went to upper management in an attempt to command a role above then-general manager Billy King. His request was rebuffed and he quickly began speaking with the Milwaukee Bucks, who already had Larry Drew as their coach.

Days later, Milwaukee acquired Kidd's coaching rights for two second-round draft picks and dismissed Drew.

The Lakers were reportedly insistent on including Kidd on their coaching staff for next season, regardless of who was brought in as head coach. They had previously spoken to Tyronn Lue regarding the vacancy, but the former Cleveland Cavaliers coach wanted a longer term than the franchise's three-year offer.

Los Angeles quickly turned its focus to Vogel, and the 45-year-old began conversing with Kidd about working as a tandem.

"I didn't know Jason very well prior to that," Vogel said. "But obviously, great respect for his playing career and his coaching career. I think he's done a good job as a head coach ... This has been the model that's best for me, in terms of building my coaching staff. Find a respected player with coaching experience that can help strengthen my message.

"I had a great, lengthy interview process with Jason where we talked about every topic you can imagine, and came away thinking he's going to be an incredible asset to our program."

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