The Portland Trail Blazers are set to begin a new NBA season, hoping to be more competitive than they were last year. Portland finished the year with a 21-61 record, placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings.
As the team entered the offseason, some thought head coach Chauncey Billups wouldn’t return. He’s about to enter the final guaranteed year of his current contract and hasn’t exactly had a strong showing.
In his three years in Portland, Billups posted a record of 81-165. If there isn’t a massive increase in his competitiveness this season, Billups could be looking for a new job.
If the team decides to part ways with Billups or if he decides to resign, who could replace him? Here are five ideal candidates to replace Billups as head coach in that scenario.
Vanterpool would bring plenty of experience to the table, having been an assistant in the league since 2012. He worked with the Trail Blazers as an assistant for seven years, which gave him knowledge of the organization.
If Portland wants someone they know, Vanterpool might be a good choice.
If Portland wants to lean on someone with head coaching experience, Ham could be a smart option. He coached the Los Angeles Lakers, helping them reach the Western Conference Finals in his first season.
While Ham has been criticized, being the head coach of the Lakers is not an easy job, but Ham has done well during his time with the team. He is a great motivator and could help Portland get out of the rebuilding phase if he is hired.
Nori has come into his own in the NBA this season after taking over as head coach of the Timberwolves following an injury. He’s a great playmaker and could help Portland transform into a more modern offense.
Putting him with players like Shaedon Sharpe, Donovan Clingan and Scoot Henderson would be fun to watch.
Adelman is somewhat of a 1-B with the highest name on the list. Working with the Nuggets, he was responsible for the offensive attack they put together.
He could contribute to the overall growth of the Trail Blazers’ young players, which makes him an ideal candidate.
Quinn has been working under Erik Spoelstra since 2014, so he must have learned something along the way. He is one of the brightest minds in basketball and working with the Heat, he has figured out how to turn something from nothing at different times.
Quinn would be an obvious choice for the Trail Blazers if that were to happen.
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