Former Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer has emerged as the leading candidate for the Milwaukee Bucks' and the Toronto Raptors' coaching vacancy, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Budenholzer has been the prized gem of the league after he parted ways with the Hawks, no longer presenting a daunting scenario where a team would be forced to give up assets in hopes to acquire his services.

Now a free man, Budenholzer is the very best from a long line of coaches formerly under Gregg Popovich's tutelage — making him the best available for any NBA job.

The Bucks are still the most sought-after opportunity, boasting a generational talent in Giannis Antetokounmpo, and equipped with key pieces to make a long-etched reign in the Eastern Conference.

The Raptors are also close to a finished product, boasting an All-Star backcourt of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan, who will likely be open to a change of system after failing dismally during their last two postseasons against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Budenholzer was reportedly looking to link in with the New York Knicks, but after David Fizdale was named coach, those dreams went to die.

Viewed as the best available coach in the market, it's likely to be a battle between these two teams to determine who will garner his services in the near future.

During his five seasons with the Hawks, Budenholzer boasted a 213-197 record, leading Atlanta to 60 wins in his second season with the team.