TITLE: Six NBA Franchises Navigate Coaching Carousel as Off-Season Opens
SLUG: six-nba-coaching-vacancies-offseason-2026
CONTENT:
Six NBA clubs have entered the offseason in search of new leadership on the bench, with two already selecting their next head coaches and four still evaluating candidates.
Bucks Move Quickly for Jenkins
Milwaukee reached a long-term agreement with Taylor Jenkins, one of the most sought-after coaches on the market. While the franchise secured its top choice, questions persist about the role’s attractiveness. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s uncertain future, a shortage of young talent, lost draft capital and lingering cap hits from last year’s decision to waive and stretch Damian Lillard all cloud the team’s outlook.
Pelicans Turn to Mosley
New Orleans hired Jamahl Mosley after consecutive 21- and 26-win seasons. Mosley inherits a promising core of Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones and Yves Missi. He must also integrate Zion Williamson, whose long-term status remains unclear but who is expected to stay for now. The Pelicans do not own a first-round pick in this year’s draft.
Openings Still on the Board
Chicago Bulls: With several veterans dealt at the deadline and more headed for free agency, Chicago appears headed toward a rebuild. The incoming coach will focus on developing young pieces such as Matas Buzelis, Noa Essengue and the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 draft.
Dallas Mavericks: Dallas offers the chance to guide reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, although the surrounding roster is in flux. New front-office leaders Masai Ujiri and Mike Schmitz may opt for significant changes, and Kyrie Irving’s recovery from a torn ACL leaves his future with the team in doubt.
Orlando Magic: After Jamahl Mosley’s five-year tenure produced only first-round exits, Orlando expects immediate progress. The next coach will oversee one of the league’s most expensive lineups, highlighted by Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs, in a clear win-now scenario.
Portland Trail Blazers: New owner Tom Dundon has drawn attention for cost-cutting measures and reported reluctance to pay top dollar for a coach. Portland’s candidate list features several lesser-known assistants. Despite budget questions, the roster—Deni Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, Donovan Clingan and Toumani Camara, with Damian Lillard expected back from an Achilles tear—made the playoffs this spring and appears on the upswing.
The remaining four franchises are expected to continue interviews over the coming weeks as they decide which candidates best fit their current timelines, roster compositions and financial parameters.
Source: Hoops Rumors
