Bucks GM Expected to Remain as NBA Coaching and Front-Office Searches Intensify
nba-front-office-and-coaching-rumor-roundup-may-2024
The Milwaukee Bucks appear set to keep general manager Jon Horst in place despite a 32-50 season and Doc Rivers stepping down as head coach. League sources told The Stein Line that Horst, signed through the 2027-28 campaign, has already contacted agents as he begins a wide-ranging coaching search.
Bucks Cast Wide Net for New Coach
Milwaukee’s first full search since hiring Mike Budenholzer in 2018 is expected to consider numerous candidates. Early names include Taylor Jenkins and Darvin Ham, though any finalist will face uncertainty around Giannis Antetokounmpo and the roster’s future makeup.
Jenkins Drawing League-Wide Interest
Jenkins, currently linked to openings with the Washington Wizards and Orlando Magic, is viewed as one of the most sought-after coaches on the market. Washington has publicly endorsed interim coach Brian Keefe, while Orlando still has Jamahl Mosley under contract, leaving both situations fluid.
Kings Retain Doug Christie
The Sacramento Kings will keep assistant coach Doug Christie for the final year of his deal, partly for continuity and partly to avoid paying two coaching salaries in a season where the club is not projected as a playoff contender.
Blazers’ Budget May Influence Hire
Interim coach Tiago Splitter has steadied the Portland Trail Blazers since Chauncey Billups was placed on leave, but new majority owner Tom Dundon is reportedly targeting a salary near $1.5 million per year for his next coach—closer to top assistant pay than established head-coach levels. Portland has already spoken with roughly 20 college and international candidates.
Front-Office Searches in Chicago and Dallas
The Chicago Bulls hired search firm TurnkeyZRG to lead their hunt for a top basketball executive, with coach Billy Donovan expected to play a significant role if he remains. In Dallas, new owner Patrick Dumont will conduct the Mavericks’ front-office search without outside assistance.
Source: Hoops Wire
