The Los Angeles Lakers have interviewed several candidates for their coaching vacancy, but their top executives are not expected to name a new coach anytime soon.

According to Sam Amick of USA Today, the Lakers are deliberately slowing down the pace of their coaching search as they are setting their sights on the upcoming free agency period.

"The slow pace of the Lakers' coaching search that began April 30 when Mike D'Antoni resigned has been timed deliberately with the upcoming free agency period in the NBA, according to a person with knowledge of the situation," Amick wrote.

Sources indicated that the Lakers are planning to make a strong push to acquire Miami Heat superstar LeBron James, or New York Knicks superstar Carmelo Anthony.

James could become a free agent this summer especially if the Heat fail to defend their title, while Anthony is expected to test free agency for the first time in his career.

Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak made it clear that no player could influence their decision in hiring a coach, but sources suggested that the Lakers' top brass are planning to get input from potential big free-agent signings this summer.

The Lakers are reportedly willing to wait longer than expected, knowing that naming a new coach soon might hurt their chances of luring a marquee free agent this offseason.

Anthony will reportedly consider signing with the Lakers this summer, while James' future plan is still unknown at this point, but sources said that the two could decide to play together, and Los Angeles could be their likely destination.

"Anthony's part in this fluid free agency situation is worth monitoring as James is known to be interested in eventually playing with his close friend," Amick revealed. "Anthony also has a player option on his deal for next season, and his connection to James has teams like the Lakers, Knicks and even the Heat wondering whether he may be able to join the four-time NBA MVP."

The Lakers will have enough cap space to sign a superstar to a maximum deal this summer, especially if veteran center Pau Gasol signs elsewhere, but James and Anthony will have to accept a pay cut if they want to play together in Los Angeles starting next season.

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