With a number of head coaching vacancies becoming available at the end of the 2012-2013 season, teams have been patiently waiting to hire the right candidates with the exception of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who brought Mike Brown back to re-join the franchise. Over the last few days, four of the remaining vacancies have been filled.
Charlotte Bobcats – The Bobcats/Hornets hired Lakers assistant Steve Clifford, who spent eight seasons with the Orlando Magic before joining Mike D’Antoni’s staff this season. This move surprised many a little bit, as this is the second straight year the Bobcats have hired a coach that provides little to no excitement for fans.
Phoenix Suns – The Suns hired Jeff Hornacek, who’s been an assistant with the Utah Jazz for the last two seasons. Hornacek, who began his playing career with Phoenix, returns to where it all started with a young roster and the 5th overall pick in this year’s draft.
Sacramento Kings – While this hire isn’t official yet, reports out of Sacramento claim that Warriors assistant Mike Malone “is a lock” to land the job as the Kings’ new coach.
Atlanta Hawks – Today, the Hawks announced that they have hired long-time Spurs assistant Mike Budenholzer, who has been one of the most highly-regarded assistant coaches in the NBA for a long time. Budenholzer has been coaching under Gregg Popovich since 1996, and has interviewed for head coaching jobs in the past. Finally, he has found a home in Atlanta, where a lot of questions still need to be answered as Josh Smith becomes a free agent this summer.
The 76ers, Bucks, Nets and Clippers are the four remaining teams without a head coach. Be sure to check back for updates on their hires in the coming weeks.
Hardwood Blues 