Ranking NBA Coaches: A Futile Exercise?
Ranking coaches in the NBA can often seem a futile exercise, particularly when considering the league's recent unpredictability. Six different NBA teams have hoisted the championship trophy in the last six seasons, signaling both competitive balance and the transient nature of coaching success in the modern NBA.
Recent coaching changes highlight the league's dynamic landscape. Adrian Griffin, who started the season as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, was dismissed midway through his first season. This abrupt change paved the way for Doc Rivers to take the helm. "Owners love him. That's probably how he keeps getting these premium jobs," notes one observer on Rivers’ enduring appeal.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers have turned to JJ Redick, a move that has sparked a mixture of skepticism and intrigue. Although his appointment is still a topic of debate, some critics remain reluctant to forecast his future. "No, I am not prepared to offer a strong opinion on the coaching future of a podcaster," one commentator quipped.
The coaching carousel continues with some familiar faces navigating new challenges. Steve Kerr remains steadfast with the Golden State Warriors, while Nick Nurse, now at the Philadelphia 76ers, and Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat continue to build their respective teams. Spoelstra, in particular, boasts an impressive resume, having coached in 34 playoff series and steered his teams as the lower-seeded underdog in 18 of those matchups.
Other notable coaching figures include Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets, Willie Green with the New Orleans Pelicans, and Jamahl Mosley leading the Orlando Magic, which has promising young talent like Paolo Banchero.
Even with such turnover, one-third of active NBA head coaches bring championship credentials to their roles. This group includes Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs, widely praised for his ability to forge strong relationships with his players. "Popovich is widely praised—and justifiably so!—for the relationships he is able to forge with his players," says an insider, encapsulating the reverence held for the veteran coach. Popovich remains an adaptive strategist, capable of molding his gameplay to the strengths of his roster.
Billy Donovan, now with the Chicago Bulls, also garners attention for his inventive approaches. "He was great in his last season in Oklahoma City, utilizing unconventional three-point guard lineups with Chris Paul, Dennis Schroder, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander," a reflection of his willingness to innovate and adapt in a changing league.
The Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards have also embraced new leadership with Jordi Fernandez and Brian Keefe, respectively. Similarly, Chauncey Billups with the Portland Trail Blazers and Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies are tasked with guiding their teams through competitive landscapes.
At the Indiana Pacers, Rick Carlisle brings his vast experience, while Mike Budenholzer now charts a new course with the Phoenix Suns. Sacramento Kings’ Mike Brown finds himself in an intriguing situation, particularly with the addition of player DeMar DeRozan. "If Brown makes it work, he could be a top-10 coach," an analyst opines, hinting at the high stakes and high expectations attached to his tenure.
This season in the NBA seems poised to continue the trend of unpredictability. With a mix of seasoned veterans, innovative strategists, and rising stars, the coaching landscape is as varied and dynamic as ever. Whether it’s Gregg Popovich’s enduring wisdom in San Antonio, Doc Rivers’ tenure in Milwaukee, or JJ Redick’s speculative debut in Los Angeles, each story captures the multifaceted nature of coaching in today’s NBA.