Ten assistants in an NBA holding pattern
A number of coaches are going to be fired this offseason. It's the giant elephant in the room in many cities around the league. Some may land on their feet quickly and wind up relocating, but others will likely have to climb back aboard the carousel as an assistant.
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| Marc Iavaroni has learned the up-tempo game while in Phoenix. (Getty Images) |
Here are 10 worth having on speed dial when looking to fill an opening:
Marc Iavaroni, Phoenix: It was a mild surprise that he wasn't one of last offseason's hirings, because he's been a hot commodity for some time. Mike D'Antoni's top assistant will bring an up-tempo system wherever he winds up, has a great understanding of the game, and coaches with great passion. It was a kick to see him call a timeout in the Rookie/Sophomore game when his squad let up for a few possessions of a rout. He'll be a good one. Iavaroni has long been tied to Toronto because of Bryan Colangelo, but may end up elsewhere if Coach of the Year candidate Sam Mitchell is retained.
P.J. Carlesimo, San Antonio: His reputation is that he's too blunt for today's players, particularly the younger breed, but that's an awful misconception. Carlesimo is a lifer, a good guy, and as of late, he's been a winner. I'm not sure if he loses sleep over not having a head job anymore, because his current gig is so good, but it would be unfair if he never gets another chance.
Ron Harper, Detroit: Flip Saunders' top assistant looks like a natural at his gig, although working with so many veterans no doubt helps him look good. The fact of the matter is that he's a natural to work with young players, though, considering the memories of watching him win championships alongside Michael Jordan are still fresh in their minds. He'll be able to command respect, and has shown a terrific understanding of the game on both ends of the floor.
Del Harris, Dallas Turning 70 on June 18, you would think Harris' days as a head man would be over, but there have been rumors out there that he could be contacted to make one last run at it. In other words, he's on lists just like these. He's done a remarkable job guiding Avery Johnson through the early stages of his coaching career, helping attain impressive results.
Erik Spoelstra, Miami: Contrary to the popular rumor that Billy Donovan will replace Pat Riley, the legendary coach's likely successor is already on his staff, and it's the 36-year old Spoelstra. This is his 11th season with Miami, where he started as a video coordinator. He's earned the respect of Riley over the years, and will no doubt be one to watch when he does get his chance.
Kurt Rambis, L.A. Lakers: Great with his players and with media, Rambis has gotten quite the education under Phil Jackson the past few years. Don't forget, he was 24-13 in an interim role as the head decision maker back in 1999.
Brian Shaw, L.A. Lakers: The 41-year old is a name rolling off many tongues, because he's quickly become invaluable to the Lakers as a motivator and massager of egos. He's only in his third season as an assistant, but you can count on him being a head coach in the next few years.
Darrell Walker, New Orleans/Oklahoma City He's got a career winning percentage of .331 in forgettable stints with Toronto and Washington, but he's gained a lot of experience since 2000, most recently doing great work with the Hornets under Byron Scott. Expect him to get another turn before all is said and done.
Lionel Hollins, Memphis: The former Blazers star won just 18 games in an interim head coaching position with Vancouver back in 2000 and has been trying to work his way back to a top position since.
Mark Aguirre, New York: There was talk that Aguirre would be the Knicks coach before Larry Brown was ultimately given the job, and in fact, if Isiah Thomas ever decided to voluntarily head back to the front office, you're probably looking at his successor. Several Knicks have made great individual strides through his tutelage. Of course, having your fortunes tied to Thomas' in New York these days isn't the most advantageous of positions.
Rick Adelman, not retained by Sacramento following the 2005-06 season, has had his status elevated by the Kings' subsequent struggles. Paul Silas, out of coaching since his tenure in Cleveland ended, has openly pined for the Charlotte vacancy. Mario Elie, currently doing TV work in Houston, and Mark Jackson, an analyst for the Nets and ABC, are also among names being whispered as potential candidates. Of course, Larry Brown's name will come up whenever he wants it to. Right now, the belief is that he'll be in Philadelphia's front office for the immediate future. When he's ready for that to change, we'll know.
