Granted,from a Rockets' perspective,We've beaten this topic like a dead horse that even CLUTCH is getting hate mail from PETA. But what about the available Jobs around the league?Who will be exiled,who will be taken in under asylum? Also,the team that hires Sam Mitchell,if he leaves Toronto,will be in for a huge disappointment.In my Opinion,Not enough credit is given to Maurizio.Anyhow,I found this article on the Charlotte Observer's website,on the possible coaching changes...... http://www.charlotte.com/129/story/119938.html COMMENTARY | DAVID ALDRIDGE Finding suitable coaches a major chore in the NBA 20% of teams have coaching vacancies Philadelphia Inquirer PHILADELPHIA --With all the hubbub about Golden State's run in the playoffs, and Dallas' collapse, and the intrigue surrounding the lottery and the upcoming draft, the fact that 20 percent of the league's teams currently don't have head coaches has flown under the radar. Six teams are absent a coach -- well, technically five, but not even Jeff Van Gundy's immediate family believes he'll be back in Houston. How convenient for him that word leaked to the New York Post last week that he was going to quit after the playoffs, when there was next to no chance Rockets owner Les Alexander was going to bring him back next season.And those half-dozen vacancies might well increase if Orlando dispatches incumbent Brian Hill or Toronto can't reach agreement on a new deal with Sam Mitchell. It will be interesting to see how coaches do financially in this round of hires. Teams have been increasingly reluctant to throw big dollars at big-name guys -- witness George Karl's modest $3 million annual payment in Denver after getting $7 million per year in Milwaukee. But there is still no shortage of interested parties. Consider: CHARLOTTE: Everyone has been interviewed for this job; Ken Reeves might be next. The list includes Mavericks assistant Sam Vincent, former Heat coach Stan Van Gundy, Paul Silas, Mario Elie, Mike Fratello, Knicks assistant Herb Williams and Grizzlies assistant Lionel Hollins. Former NBA player Reggie Theus interviewed with the Bobcats, but received a new contract to stay at New Mexico State. HOUSTON: All that remains is how the Rockets and Jeff Van Gundy will word his departure. It will almost certainly be a "mutual decision" that he will not return. By doing so, Van Gundy will pocket a fat fee. The name heard most often as Van Gundy's replacement is ex-Kings and Blazers coach Rick Adelman, though Silas' name is believed to be on Alexander's short list, as well. The Rockets can't afford to break in a new coach with Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady and Shane Battier in the meat of their respective careers. Alexander will also likely inquire about Larry Brown's interest. The team owner will not inquire about former Houston Rockets coach Rudy Tomjanovich, who is currently a scout for the Lakers. Even though Rudy T's contract will be up in a month or so, Tomjanovich is serious about maintaining his improved quality of life away from coaching. INDIANA: Ex-Pacers Mitchell and Mark Jackson are both viewed as the anti-Rick Carlisle, able to communicate better with players while still challenging them to get better. Stan Van Gundy has also interviewed here. The Pacers have not yet contacted Toronto about Mitchell, waiting to see what happens. MEMPHIS: The Grizzlies are taking their time, waiting to see exactly what they'll have in the draft after the May 22 lottery. If they land the first pick, they'll take Greg Oden and Suns assistant Marc Iavaroni would be the odds-on favorite to get the job. If not ... SACRAMENTO: Current Kings assistant and former player Scott Brooks' name has been mentioned, but anyone who tells you they know which way the ultra-secretive GM Geoff Petrie is leaning is lying to you. SEATTLE: If assistant GM Presti Presti gets the vacant GM job, many expect him to bring San Antonio assistant P.J. Carlesimo with him to coach.
I don't get what fee there is to pocket... JVG is a free agent (non-guaranteed year)... there really isn't anything to negotiate, is there? Say bye and Les has no more obligation to pay him. Maybe a part of that contract is guaranteed? Like maybe $1 million if they don't pick up the option?
