Report: Sean Sweeney Remains in Mix for Magic Job; Heat, Hawks and Hornets Map Off-Season Strategies
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ORLANDO, Fla. — Despite emphasizing previous head-coaching experience in their search to replace Jamahl Mosley, the Orlando Magic are still weighing Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney, according to The Stein Line. Billy Donovan and Jeff Van Gundy are believed to be the early leaders, yet league chatter continues to keep Sweeney on Orlando’s list.
Magic Coaching Search
Sweeney, 41, would be a first-time NBA head coach. He spent several seasons on the Mavericks’ bench before joining San Antonio, where he became Mitch Johnson’s lead assistant last year. The Spurs credit him for the club’s dramatic defensive leap from the NBA’s fifth-worst rating in 2024-25 to third-best in 2025-26.
The Chicago Bulls and Dallas Mavericks also have Sweeney on their coaching shortlists. One recent report labeled him a prime contender to succeed Donovan in Chicago, while Donovan himself is viewed by many executives as the favorite in Orlando.
Heat Draft Preparation
Miami owns the 13th and 41st selections in June’s draft. Assistant general manager Adam Simon said the organization aims to meet with as many prospects as scheduling allows, stressing the importance of evaluating players both on the floor and during off-court interactions. Simon added that the Heat will still consider drafting someone they were unable to bring in for a workout if the fit is right.
Hawks Cap Outlook
After a promising 2025-26 season, the Atlanta Hawks enter the summer with youthful talent, extra draft picks and maneuverability. Analyst Yossi Gozlan projects Atlanta will operate over the salary cap but below the first tax apron, giving the club access to the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Trades are viewed as the Hawks’ most realistic path to roster upgrades.
Hornets Priorities
Re-signing guard Coby White tops the Charlotte Hornets’ agenda, writes Keith Smith of Spotrac. Smith recommends a descending four-year pact worth $72-88 million. Charlotte also holds the 14th and 18th picks and is expected to target frontcourt and wing depth. Forward Brandon Miller is unlikely to receive a maximum rookie-scale extension, with a four-year, $140 million proposal cited as a possible compromise.
Source: Hoops Rumors
