NBA Rumors: Coaching, Bucks, Wizards, Pelicans, Doug Christie, Steve Kerr, Blazers

The NBA coaching carousel hasn’t started spinning yet. But it’s coming.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, there’s growing chatter around the league about potential openings, possible candidates, and a few situations worth monitoring as the offseason approaches.

Here’s a look at some of the latest buzz:

Bucks, Wizards Eyeing Jenkins?

Former Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins could be a name to watch for multiple teams.

Fischer reports there have been “whispers for months” linking Jenkins to the Bucks if they move on from Doc Rivers. The Wizards may also have interest if they decide not to retain Brian Keefe.

That decision isn’t set in stone.

Washington is still early in its rebuild, and there’s always the question of whether a coach is the right fit to guide a team from losing to competing.

As one general manager told Fischer: “It’s very difficult for any young coach to survive a years-long rebuild and (then) oversee a dramatic cultural shift of losing to competing.”

Mosley, Borrego, Ham Names To Watch

If the Magic make a change, Jamahl Mosley is expected to draw interest elsewhere.

One team to keep an eye on? The Pelicans. Fischer notes Pelicans executive Joe Dumars is a fan of Mosley. If New Orleans opens the job, he could be in the mix.

Other potential candidates there include James Borrego and Darvin Ham, currently an assistant with Milwaukee.

Nothing imminent. But groundwork is being laid.

Warriors Want Clarity With Kerr

It’s still too early to know what Steve Kerr will do. If he returns to the Warriors, though, the preference is clear.

Golden State would like more than a one-year commitment. The goal? Avoid a “Last Dance scenario.”

That makes sense when you look at the timeline. Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green are all tied to contracts that run through 2027, depending on options.

The organization would prefer stability alongside that core.

Kings Still Evaluating Christie

The Kings haven’t made a decision yet on Doug Christie. They’re still evaluating.

Fischer notes the Kings are factoring in the impact injuries had on the roster this season. Christie has one guaranteed year remaining on his deal, along with a team option for 2027-28.

A return isn’t off the table. But it’s not locked in either.

Blazers Facing Uncertainty

Things are a little less settled in Portland.

The Trail Blazers had discussions at one point about a possible extension for Tiago Splitter, who stepped in as acting head coach.

Now? That’s on hold.

New owner Tom Dundon is evaluating everything — the coaching staff, the front office, the whole operation. So, yes, changes are possible. That said, Fischer notes Dundon recently described general manager Joe Cronin’s job status as “solid.”

So not everything is up in the air. But enough is.

Bottom line? The coaching market has been quiet. Don’t expect it to stay that way much longer.