/ STAFF WRITER
LOS ANGELES – The pinched nerve in Luke Walton’s back prohibited him from providing some of the qualities Phil Jackson loved about him.
Walton could not be on the court and provide the timely passes that made the triangle offense run smoothly. Walton could not be around his teammates to promote the bonding atmosphere that Jackson craved, either.
So, Jackson gave Walton a different assignment. Throughout the 2010-11 season, Walton sat on the sideline and charted plays. Walton helped former Lakers assistant Frank Hamblen compile scouting reports and break down film.