Chauncey Billups, Others Linked To Celtics Coaching Vacancy

The Celtics are expected to consider in-house coaching candidates before looking outside the organization, according to Chris Mannix of SI.com.

Former coach Brad Stevens will lead the search for his replacement as Boston’s new president of basketball operations. Stevens is taking over for Danny Ainge, who announced Wednesday that he’s stepping down after 18 years on the job.

Current assistant Jerome Allen is expected to be among those considered for the coaching vacancy, per Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated.

Mannix cited Nets assistant Ime Udoka as a potential candidate outside of the organization. The same goes for current Clippers assistant and former Celtics guard Chauncey Billups and Lakers assistant Jason Kidd, per Yahoo Sports’ Vincent Goodwill.

Former Hawks coach Lloyd Pierce could also receive consideration, Yahoo’s Chris Haynes reported.

Meanwhile, Ainge told reporters his focus at the moment is getting Stevens up to speed in his new role. Ainge added he’s not sure what the future holds, and didn’t indicate whether he intends to work for another franchise.

“This is a great day for the Celtics,” Ainge said. “This is actually a big step forward.”

Boston finished 36-36 and lost to the Nets in five games in the first round of the playoffs.