Mike D’Antoni pushes back Lakers debut

New Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni will not make his debut on the team’s bench in tonight’s game against the Rockets.

“@gregbeacham: Mike D'Antoni is going to hold off his Lakers sideline debut for another game: "I don't want to be a sideshow." #nba—
AP Sports (@AP_Sports) November 19, 2012

D'Antoni: "I'm a little disappointed, I wanted to be on the bench" He said Lakers trainer Gary Vitti convinced him to sit out—
Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 19, 2012

D'Antoni said he was concerned about his energy waning late in the game and he trusts Bickerstaff. He said first game could be Tues or Weds—
Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 19, 2012

D’Antoni, who hiring was announced on Monday, spent the past few days on crutches while recovering from recent knee-replacement surgery. He had targeted tonight for his first stint on the Lakers bench, but held the chance that his debut might be delayed.

“I think (I will),” said D’Antoni. “Unless I wake up too tired. I’m getting there. It’s getting a lot better.”