With the Nets should seek a permanent head coach once the season is over, a long goal for the organization seems to be Gregg Popovich, Writes Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times.
While Woike’s report points out that Popovich leaving San Antonio after two decades of excellence is unlikely at best, the Nets reckon they are doing their best to take down the legendary manager. Sources familiar with both the Nets and Spurs expect Brooklyn to explore the possibility, according to Woike.
With the All-Star duo of Kevin Durant is Kyrie Irving Expected healthy for Brooklyn in 2020/21, a coach of Popovich’s caliber would further legitimize the Nets’ championship aspirations. However, there are many factors that are not working in Brooklyn’s favor, including Popovich’s long tenure with Spurs and the fact that he remains under contract for next season.
Popovich, the NBA’s oldest coach at 71, strongly indicated this week that he would be returning to the Spurs bench for another season in 2020/21.
“Why shouldn’t I?” Popovich asked, according to Marc Stein of the New York Times.
There is a clear connection between the Nets and the Spurs that could play in Brooklyn’s favor: the general manager Sean Marks played with Popovich in San Antonio and then spent multiple seasons as a manager and manager with Spurs. It could prompt the proverbial Nets foot to discuss a union with Popovich, though Marks himself downplayed this possibility during a WFAN interview in July.
“Pop has a job. So, I’ll say it “ Marks said. “And, of course, we all know he is an amazing and extraordinary coach and, to be honest, an even better leader. So, I’ll let Pop continue coaching for the Spurs. He owes it to them and they owe it to him. I’m sure he’s happy enough there. “
Adding a five-time NBA champion coach with the most championship wins in the sidelines would be a big blow to a Brooklyn team looking for its next leader. At this stage, however, it looks more like wishful thinking than a possible reality.
Interim head coach Jacque Vaughn should receive strong consideration for the permanent work of the Nets, with Tyronn Read, Jason Kidd, Jeff Van Gundy, is Ime Udoka among those who were also nominated as possible candidates.
