In light of Bryan Colangelo's resignation from his post as president of basketball operations, the Philadelphia 76ers will soon start their search for a replacement, having placed head coach Brett Brown in control of basketball operations in an interim basis.
Several executives could be in line to take this job, as the Sixers are likely to want to keep front office and on-court matters separate.
According to Tim Bontemps of The Washington Post, experienced suits like former Cleveland Cavaliers general manager David Griffin, former Sixers GM Sam Hinkie, and Boston Celtics assistant GM Mike Zarren are among the best candidates to take the job.
Sam Hinkie could see a potential reunion, as the godfather of what is known as the “Trust The Process” rebuilding method, one which he built from the ground up by tanking and amassing high draft picks, winding up with the likes of Joel Embiid, before parting ways with the team. He still maintains good relationships with the organization, which could be even more of a reason for a re-marriage between the two.
David Griffin has been out of a job since agreeing to go separate ways with the Cavs this past summer, boasting a reputable standing and a good relationship with players across the league.
Mike Zarren showed interest for the job when Hinkie was first hired in 2013, and while he has deep connections in Boston, he could potentially leave for a major promotion with this opportunity at hand.
Other outliers are former Hawks GM Danny Ferry and Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri, who is a rather unlikely possibility, unless he's somehow lured into this role with a massive offer from Sixers' ownership.