The Washington Wizards are in search of a new assistant coach who has a strong defensive track record.
Per Chase Hughes of NBCS Washington, the Wizards are looking for a new coach to add to Scott Brooks' staff:
The Wizards have been interviewing candidates for a new assistant coach on Scott Brooks' staff, @NBCSWashington has learned. Ideally, they hope to hire someone with a strong defensive track record.
— Chase Hughes (@chasedcsports) July 9, 2019
Via nba.com, the Wizards' coaching staff comprises of Brooks as the head coach; Tony Brown, Robert Pack, Ryan Richman, Mike Terpstra, Maz Trakh as their assistant coaches; and Kristi Toliver, Landon Tatum, and Alex McLean as assistant coaches/player development.
Last season, the Wizards were ranked 27th of 30 teams in terms of defensive ratings (112.9). They were also the 27th in defensive rebounds (32.7) per game, 23rd in blocked shots (4.6), and 29th in opponent points in the paint (52.1). They finished with a 32-50 record and failed to qualify for the postseason. In the last six years, the Wizards have made the playoffs four times.
As such, the team is looking to add some assets, both as players and in the coaching staff. As of writing, they've acquired forward CJ Miles via trade. They've also signed big man Davis Bertrans as well as Mo Wagner whom they got via trade. On top of which, they've re-signed Thomas Bryant who's expected to have a breakout year this season. They also have Rui Hachimura — the ninth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.