Orlando Magic narrow down the head coaching search to three candidates -NBA Update
Orlando Magic’s search for their next head coach has narrowed down to three candidates, according to a source close to the situation. The Magic have shortlisted the names of Michael Curry, Lindsey Hunter and Jacque Vaughn.
The trio have already been interviewed by Magic’s GM Rob Hennigan, and they will be scrutinized by Alex Matins, franchise CEO in the second round of selection very soon.
The coaching slot at the franchise has been vacant for more than a month now. Former coach Stan Van Gundy was fired after the end of 2011-12 season. Gundy coached Magic for 5 seasons and under him, the franchise made an appearance
in the post season every time. However his deteriorating relationships with Dwight Howard went to the point of no return and that was what eventually forced his exit.
The three finalists will meet with Magic’s CEO in near future, and then there will be meeting with the clubs owners DeVos family, for the final hiring. The trio combined hold 11 year of coaching experience, and none of them has
the experience or repute which was enjoyed by Stan Van Gundy.
Hunter for instance, retired in 2010 from Detroit Pistons. He averaged 8.5 points and 2.2 boards in 937 games. Shortly after his retirement he was signed by Chicago Bulls as a player development assistant and later on went to
assume the same position with Phoenix Suns. He has no coaching experience at all.
Curry is the only candidate with some head coaching experience. He has completed his 2 year tenure as an assistant head coach with Philadelphia 76ers. Curry started his career in 1993 and after playing for Philadelphia 76ers, Washington
Bullets, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers, he retired in 2005.
After spending three years in retirement, he assumed his first coaching responsibility with Detroit Pistons back in 2008-09. He then went on to take over the assistant head coach position with Sixers.
The 3rd shortlisted candidate Jacque Vaughn is currently serving in the capacity of an assistant coach with San Antonio Spurs.
Tags: