A few days ago, it appeared that George Karl was on his way out with the Sacramento Kings, but the coach met with team officials and ironed out their differences — at least for now.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Kings general manager Vlade Divac confirmed that Karl is still the coach and “we’re collectively working through our issues.”
The major issue is a four-game losing streak and eight losses in the last 10 games for the Kings (21-31). The latest setback with a 120-100 loss in Cleveland to the Cavaliers on Monday night.
Reports from the past few days indicated that Karl would be fired by the NBA All-Star Game break this weekend. Divac, who reportedly was given the power to determine Karl’s fate by owner Vivek Ranadive, put that speculation to rest for the short term with Tuesday’s statement.
Among the issues apparently are Karl’s defensive schemes and practice agenda. He agreed to modify both after meeting with Divac, ESPN reported. Karl also had a much-publicized dispute with center DeMarcus Cousins earlier in the season.
The Kings owe Karl approximately $10 million in guaranteed money on his four-year, $15 million contract.
Going into Tuesday night’s games, the Kings trailed the Utah Jazz by five games for the eighth and final playoff berth in the Western Conference. Sacramento visits Philadelphia to face the 76ers on Wednesday night.
