Jason Burgos
The Orlando Magic rumors became a reality on Monday morning. After blowing a stunning 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series against the 1-seed Detroit Pistons and getting eliminated from the postseason on Sunday, the organization fired head coach Jamahl Mosley.
There had been speculation for months that the 47-year-old was on thin ice. A series win would have made a return a near lock. However, not only did the Magic blow a 3-1 lead, but they were ousted in the opening round of the playoffs for a third straight year. It was the final straw for management, and Mosely is out after posting a 189-221 record and reaching the postseason three times during his five seasons in Orlando.
With the Magic now in search of a new head coach, we offer up six replacement options, including the head coach of college basketball’s reigning champs.
Billy Donovan
Many newer NBA fans may not realize that former Oklahoma City Thunder and Chicago Bulls head coach actually accepted the job of Magic head coach back in 2007. However, he shockingly backed out of the deal to stay at Florida and remained there for eight more seasons before making the jump to the NBA.
However, after stepping down as coach of the Bulls last month, he is back on the market and would be an interesting option. While his time in Chicago was mostly underwhelming, he had a good bit of success in OKC and was a legend in the college ranks after winning two Nattys. He will likely be on Orlando’s candidate list.
Sam Cassell
Sam Cassell had a really nice 15-year career as a player, winning three NBA championships. But since 2009, he has built a strong reputation as a top assistant during multiple stops, including with the Los Angeles Clippers and currently the Boston Celtics.
For several years, he’s been seen as an individual worthy of a head coaching job, and it is just a matter of time before a franchise finally gives him an opportunity. He should definitely be under consideration for Orlando.
Dusty May
Michigan head coach Dusty May is on top of the college basketball world after leading the program to its first championship in close to 40 years. His stock around the industry has never been higher, especially since he did it with smart team building through the NIL market.
It’s probably why Marc Stein reports that he has fans inside the Magic’s front office who would like to talk to him if that were possible. However, the NBA insider notes, “the expectation at this point in the college game is that May will stay with the Wolverines” after winning it all in March.
Micah Nori
Another top assistant that has been linked to several head coaching jobs over the last couple of years is Minnesota Timberwolves assistant, Micah Nori. He has been learning on NBA benches for 17 seasons and with five different teams. Of the various assistants around the game, there is no more ready and respected individual than Nori.
Furthermore, he has played a key role in developing a team with a strong defensive backbone. It makes him a strong fit for the talented, defensive-leaning roster the Magic already have.
Tom Thibodeau, Former New York Knicks head coach
Former New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau was unfairly fired this time last year after his team failed to reach the NBA Finals. Yes, he has a Marty Schottenheimer-level allergy to getting to the championship round, but he has long been a very good coach wherever he has gone.
With the Magic already being a strong defensive team, they fit Thibodeau’s style quite well. The big question is, are the Magic fine with being better than just reaching the first round, or do they feel they have a roster that is a coach away from winning it all?
Chris Quinn, Miami Heat assistant
Miami Heat assistant coach Chris Quinn is sure to land a top job soon. He has been with the organization for 12 years and is Erik Spoelstra’s top assistant. The Heat and their culture are one of the most respected in the game because of their competence.
Quinn is one of the franchise’s greatest acolytes and could bring what has worked for them over the last decade-plus to Orlando. Poaching the top assistant from the in-state rival would be an intriguing storyline heading into next season.
