TITLE: Sixers Consider Jameer Nelson for Top Job; Bucks Monitor Giannis Situation; Mavericks Launch Coaching Search
SLUG: sixers-jameer-nelson-bucks-giannis-mavs-coach-search
CONTENT:
The Philadelphia 76ers are expanding their search for a new president of basketball operations and could elevate assistant general manager Jameer Nelson, league sources told The Athletic. While outside candidates remain in play, insiders view the former NBA guard as a serious contender to succeed Daryl Morey.
Sixers’ Options
General manager Elton Brand confirmed four external executives have entered the mix: Cleveland’s Mike Gansey, Portland’s Nick U’Ren, L.A. Clippers executive Trent Redden and Minnesota’s Matt Lloyd. Atlanta, however, declined Philadelphia’s request to interview Hawks GM Onsi Saleh.
Nelson, who ranks behind Morey and Brand on the organizational chart, has reportedly taken on duties beyond those normally assigned to a No. 3 executive. If he is not promoted this offseason, multiple team officials believe he is likely to run an NBA front office in the near future.
Bucks and Antetokounmpo
The Milwaukee Bucks continue to navigate uncertainty surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future. Speaking on “The Pat McAfee Show,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said the two-time MVP has not filed a formal trade request but still thinks a change of scenery could benefit both him and the franchise. “Giannis’ stance has not changed,” Charania noted.
Mavericks Begin Post-Kidd Era
New Dallas Mavericks president Masai Ujiri told reporters Wednesday that the organization will leave “no stone unturned” while searching for a replacement for former head coach Jason Kidd. Ujiri said Dallas will consider veteran NBA coaches, first-time candidates, college leaders and international options.
He added that he has not contacted any prospects out of respect for Kidd and emphasized that Kidd’s reported involvement in the 2018 Luka Dončić draft-night trade did not influence the coaching change. Ujiri called the upcoming offseason a “clean slate” for the franchise.
Source: Hoops Wire
