Boston Celtics: Ranking Cs among head coaching openings
Head Coach Opening #3: Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers have a bonified superstar in Damian Lillard, who remains one of the most dangerous players in any late-game situation. He’s under contract through the 2024-25 season but may get moved this year after hinting at his unhappiness with the organization following the team’s loss in the first round of the playoffs. Teams like the Knicks hope to have a chance to acquire the All-NBA talent, and the Blazers could certainly gather an impressive package in return.
Portland also has C.J. McCollum for the next three seasons, making more than $30 million each of those years. It may be time to finally break up the star backcourt, as they have not been able to take the next step to become a real championship contender. Besides a C.J. trade, there’s not much the Trail Blazers can do, as they lack overall flexibility due to their expensive stars.
Each year, they alternate rotational pieces but are reluctant to undergo a complete overall. Lillard is only getting older, and they need to make a change soon if they want a championship anytime soon.
With a new head coach coming to town, some aspects could change, as Terry Stots was scrutinized for questionable rotations throughout his tenure in Portland. They are rumored to be interested in Chauncey Billups, a name that has garnered lots of interest early on in this process for multiple teams.
This coaching job is intriguing both if Lillard stays or if he leaves, as a potential return may begin a quick rebuild for the Blazers, hoping to bring a title back to Oregon.
Head Coach Opening #2: New Orleans Pelicans
After just one season, coach Stan Van Gundy was let go by the Pelicans Wednesday morning, as they will hire their third coach in as many years. Missing the play-in tournament by a considerable margin, it’s fair to say this season was an overall disappointment for the Pels, failing to make an impact on the league despite all of their young talents.
That young talent is one of the best in the league, highlighted by Zion Williamson. The 20-year-old averaged 27 points on 61% shooting in his sophomore campaign, just missing out on an All-NBA bid. His talent needs to be maximized in New Orleans, as that will be the most important assignment for the new head coach.
The Pels also have standout Brandon Ingram locked down for the next four years as a proven star next to Zion, already building a reputable core to compete with anyone. The problem with this team is their roster construction, as some of their most highly paid players are ones that cannot shoot effectively around Zion. Both Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe do not provide proficient floor spacing, making it more difficult for Zion to operate in the paint.
This position is extremely appealing, as the New Orleans Pelicans have the potential to be a powerhouse in this league to come with their overwhelming star power. With a few roster shuffles, this team can make a serious jump in the 2021-22 season with the right head coaching hire.