As July 1st fast approaches and Lakers fans are soon to begin surfing the wave of rumors hitting Los Angeles, here's one recently floated scenario you can put to rest.  Should health issues require Phil Jackson to hang up his white board, Mike Krzyzewski ain't the dude stepping in. 

For that matter, it doesn't sound like Coach K is much interested in taking the purple and gold reins at any point.  During his annual meeting with the press, Kobe Bryant's Olympic coach said he's "not going to the Lakers."  For that matter, he doesn't plan on bolting Duke until he's ready for a lifestyle that doesn't include coaching. 

Granted, we've heard many a coach say he's staying put until hell freezes over and without warning, the devil's lair is suddenly cool enough to suit Frosty the Snowman's needs.  But I'm willing to bet there's a reasonable amount of sincerity to Coach K's statement.  Between the cushiness provided by his Godlike status in Durham, the strong no-win potential that comes with following PJ, and the percentage of college coaches- even titans- that struggle at the pro level, in my humble opinion, K should be fitted for a strait jacket if he wanted to flip gigs.  That's just plain silly.

Speculation Season remains in full blast, if a bit more narrowly focused.

As you were.

AK

Photo: Mike Krzyzewski Credit: AP Photo/Gerry Broome