After firing Igor Kokoskov, the Phoenix Suns are reportedly eyeing Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach Monty Williams as his replacement.
Per Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Los Angeles Lakers — who are also in search of a new head coach after parting with Luke Walton — are planning a second interview with Williams.
Here's a factor in the timing of Kokoskov's dismissal: The Suns are planning to target Philadelphia 76ers assistant Monty Williams, league sources tell ESPN. Lakers are planning a second interview with Williams soon, sources said.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 23, 2019
According to reports, the Lakers seem to be choosing between Tyronn Lue and Williams and are planning to sit with them for a second interview. But this time, the talk will revolve around details and specifics.
ESPN reporting with @McTen: Ty Lue’s meeting w/ Lakers GM Rob Pelinka today was similar to Monty Williams’ earlier in week: Get to know each other, setting up second interviews focused more on specifics. Lakers plan to bring back both coaches for sit-downs including Jeanie Buss.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 20, 2019
Monty Williams, a former NBA player, started his coaching career in 2005 as an assistant for the Portland Trail Blazers. After five seasons, he moved to New Orleans, where he was was the Hornets' — and then Pelicans' — head coach for five seasons. He tallied a 173-221 record and led the team to the playoffs in the 2014-2015 season. However, the Pelicans were swept by the Golden State Warriors, who went on to win the championship that year.
In the 2015-2016 season, Williams was the associate head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Now, he's an assistant under Brett Brown for the 76ers. It will be interesting to see how the search for the new head coach turns out. Will the Lakers pick Lue or Williams? If so, how will this affect the Suns' decision-making process?
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