LeBron defends Walton amid expected dismissal

LOS ANGELES - LeBron James has defended Luke Walton's record amid ongoing speculation concerning the Los Angeles Lakers coach's future with the franchise.

Walton is widely expected to be shown the door by the Lakers at the end of the season after a disappointing campaign that saw them fail to make the playoffs for a sixth straight year.

James said injuries and suspensions throughout the campaign left Walton short of resources for key parts of the season.