A new name has emerged as a serious candidate for the opening at head coach for the Houston Rockets. According to Marc Stein of The New York Times, player development coach John Lucas is being considered by the Rockets, and this is primarily because of his relationship with stars James Harden and Russell Westbrook.
Lucas has served as a player development coach for the Rockets over the past four years, and has since been able to build a good working relationship with both Harden and Westbrook. He's not exactly a household name at this point, and Houston wouldn't be making a splash if it opts to hire Lucas, but in the end, it's all about his fit for the job.
Lucas has served as a head coach for three different teams: the San Antonio Spurs (1992 to 1994), Philadelphia 76ers (1994 to 1996, where he also served as the team's general manager), and Cleveland Cavaliers (2001 to 2003). Over the span of six seasons with those clubs, he amassed a 173-258 win-loss record. He was fired midway through his second season with Cleveland, a season which resulted in the Cavs getting LeBron James.
Lucas is contending with a few other candidates for the recently vacated head coaching post in Houston. Former NBA champion head coach Tyronn Lue, who currently holds the position of assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers, headlines the list of big names being linked with the Rockets. David Vanterpool, an assistant coach for the Minnesota Timberwolves, is another top candidate.
It would be in the Rockets' best interest to make a decision sooner rather than later. There are a few more personnel decisions that need to be made in Houston, and bringing in a new head coach would be an ideal first step for the franchise after Mike D'Antoni's departure.
Follow Us
Subscribe