Episode 3 of HBO’s “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” depicts the shocking and tragic death of Jack McKinney, the newly appointed head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. His cycling accident leaves the promising future of the team hanging precariously in the balance.
The Unforeseen Tragedy: The Death of Jack McKinney
The third episode culminates in a devastating turn of events. Jack McKinney, portrayed with remarkable charisma and vision, is involved in a serious bicycle accident, plunging the Lakers organization into chaos. The episode doesn’t explicitly depict his death on screen; rather, it ends with the aftermath of the accident, making his immediate fate ambiguous. However, historical records and subsequent episodes confirm that while McKinney did not die from the initial bicycle accident, his ability to coach effectively was severely compromised, essentially ending his tenure with the Lakers before it truly began. The accident resulted in significant head injuries, forcing him to take an extended leave of absence and ultimately ceding the coaching reins to Paul Westhead.
The Context: A Promising Beginning
Before the tragic accident, McKinney was painting a picture of a fast-paced, innovative offensive system for the Lakers. His “Showtime” vision, characterized by constant motion, quick passes, and an emphasis on running the floor, was already beginning to resonate with the players, particularly Magic Johnson. This promise of a new era makes the accident all the more devastating for the team and fans.
The Ripple Effect: A Dynasty Forged in Uncertainty
McKinney’s accident created a vacuum of leadership, forcing the Lakers to make a difficult decision. The subsequent appointment of Paul Westhead as head coach, while initially viewed as a temporary measure, ultimately shaped the trajectory of the franchise. While Westhead maintained some elements of McKinney’s offensive philosophy, his more conservative approach and differing views on team dynamics contributed to the growing tension between him and Magic Johnson, eventually leading to Westhead’s own dismissal and the ascendance of Pat Riley. Therefore, while McKinney survived the immediate accident, his absence profoundly influenced the Lakers’ path to their legendary dynasty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jack McKinney and His Impact
Here are some frequently asked questions about Jack McKinney and the impact of his accident on the Los Angeles Lakers:
FAQ 1: Did Jack McKinney actually coach the Lakers?
Yes, Jack McKinney did coach the Lakers. He was hired as the head coach before the start of the 1979-1980 NBA season. He coached the team for 14 games, leading them to a 9-5 record, before the bicycle accident sidelined him. His influence, though brief, was instrumental in setting the stage for the “Showtime” era.
FAQ 2: What were the specifics of Jack McKinney’s accident?
McKinney was riding his bicycle to a tennis match when he was involved in a serious accident. He suffered a head injury that required an extended hospital stay and rehabilitation. While specific details are limited, it’s clear that the head trauma was significant enough to impair his cognitive function and coordination, preventing him from effectively returning to coaching.
FAQ 3: Did the accident permanently impact Jack McKinney’s health?
Yes, the accident had a lasting impact on Jack McKinney’s health. While he eventually recovered and even returned to coaching other teams later in his career, the accident undoubtedly affected his overall well-being and ability to perform at the highest level. He experienced ongoing challenges related to the brain injury he sustained.
FAQ 4: Who replaced Jack McKinney as head coach of the Lakers?
Initially, Paul Westhead, McKinney’s assistant coach, took over as interim head coach. Later, he was officially named the head coach. Westhead coached the Lakers to the NBA championship in the 1979-1980 season.
FAQ 5: How did the players react to McKinney’s accident?
The players were deeply affected by McKinney’s accident. They admired his innovative coaching style and were excited about the potential of the team under his leadership. The accident created a sense of uncertainty and loss, forcing them to adapt to a new coaching regime and a changing dynamic within the team. The players mourned the loss of McKinney’s vision.
FAQ 6: Was McKinney’s “Showtime” offense implemented despite his absence?
While Paul Westhead maintained some aspects of McKinney’s offensive philosophy, the implementation was not a direct continuation. Westhead’s approach was generally more conservative, focusing on a slower pace and a greater emphasis on established offensive sets. However, the foundation of fast-paced basketball that McKinney had laid remained a key element of the Lakers’ success.
FAQ 7: Did McKinney ever coach in the NBA again after the accident?
Yes, Jack McKinney did coach in the NBA again. He returned to coaching in 1984 with the Kansas City Kings (later the Sacramento Kings). He also coached the Indiana Pacers. However, his post-accident coaching tenures were not as successful as his brief stint with the Lakers.
FAQ 8: How accurate is “Winning Time’s” portrayal of Jack McKinney’s accident and its aftermath?
“Winning Time” takes certain creative liberties with historical events for dramatic effect. While the core events surrounding McKinney’s accident are accurate, the specific details and conversations depicted in the series may not be entirely factual. It’s important to remember that the show is a dramatization, not a documentary. The series highlights the essence of the tragedy and its impact.
FAQ 9: What was Jack McKinney’s coaching philosophy?
Jack McKinney’s coaching philosophy was centered around a fast-paced, offensive style of basketball. He emphasized constant motion, quick passes, and running the floor. He believed in empowering players to make decisions on the court and creating a system that allowed them to showcase their individual talents. He was considered an innovator in basketball strategy.
FAQ 10: How long did Paul Westhead coach the Lakers?
Paul Westhead coached the Lakers for approximately two and a half seasons. He coached them from the latter part of the 1979-1980 season until early in the 1981-1982 season, when he was fired following a series of disagreements with Magic Johnson and other players.
FAQ 11: How did Pat Riley become the head coach after Paul Westhead?
Following Westhead’s firing, Jerry Buss, the owner of the Lakers, appointed Pat Riley as the head coach. Initially, Riley was named co-coach with Jerry West, but West quickly deferred to Riley, giving him full control of the team.
FAQ 12: What is Jack McKinney’s legacy in basketball?
Despite his relatively short NBA head coaching career, Jack McKinney’s legacy lies in his innovative offensive strategies and his influence on the “Showtime” era of Lakers basketball. He is remembered as a visionary coach who helped to revolutionize the game and inspire a generation of players. His impact on modern basketball is undeniable.
In conclusion, while Jack McKinney did not die in the literal sense after the cycling accident depicted in “Winning Time,” his ability to coach was tragically and permanently altered, fundamentally shifting the course of Lakers history. His vision, though cut short, remains an integral part of the team’s legendary story.