Mavericks Begin Interviews in Expansive Head-Coach Search
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The Dallas Mavericks have started requesting permission to speak with prospective head-coaching candidates roughly two weeks after parting ways with Jason Kidd, league sources told The Stein Line.
The front office expects to interview about a dozen contenders before settling on Kidd’s successor, according to reporters Jake Fischer and Marc Stein.
NBA assistants high on early list
Dallas has either expressed interest in or is preparing to contact several current NBA assistants:
- Micah Nori – Minnesota Timberwolves
- Royal Ivey – Houston Rockets
- Jama Mahlalela – Toronto Raptors
- Tony Dobbins – Boston Celtics
- Noah LaRoche – Miami Heat consultant
Stotts, other names in mix
Veteran coach Terry Stotts, who is leaving Steve Kerr’s staff in Golden State and previously led the Hawks, Bucks and Trail Blazers, is expected to secure an interview. Sources say Stotts is focused solely on head-coaching opportunities.
Former Mavericks assistant Sean Sweeney appeared on the club’s radar, but he was deep into negotiations with Orlando before Dallas reached out and has since been hired by the Magic.
College, international and women’s ranks under review
The Mavericks have conducted preliminary checks with college coaches, including Duke’s Jon Scheyer—who coached Dallas forward Cooper Flagg—and Michigan’s Dusty May. Scheyer is reportedly committed to remaining at Duke and is viewed as an unlikely candidate.
Newly hired team president Masai Ujiri, who brought Darko Rajaković to Toronto during his previous tenure, is also expected to monitor European coaching possibilities and candidates from the women’s game. Ujiri said in May the organization will “turn over every stone,” considering first-time and veteran coaches from the NBA, college and overseas markets.
Source: Hoops Rumors
