New Orleans Pelicans Head Coaching Search: Jason Kidd looks to be back on the radar

David Griffin and the New Orleans Pelicans are making progress in their head coaching search and a decision could potentially be reached as early as sometime next week, per Andrew Lopez of ESPN.

The biggest question, of course, which names will populate the 3-4 finalists? It’s probably safe to assume that Tyronn Lue is going to make the short list, but as for the rest of the group, it’s a toss-up. Griffin has kept this search close to his chest; however, an interesting wrinkle developed yesterday.

Jason Kidd’s name immediately popped up onto the radar after Alvin Gentry was dismissed, but talk of him filling the vacancy in New Orleans largely quieted down. However, there’s a growing sense that Kidd might be a finalist after several mentions over the past 24 hours or so.

In addition to Murray’s Tweet, Andrew Lopez brought up Kidd’s name to Sean Fox on Sports Talk 97.7 yesterday when asked about the latest news on New Orleans’ search. While Lopez gives Lue the slight edge to wind up the next head coach of the Pelicans, it’s far from a guarantee. He’s still very much considered one of the favorites for the Clippers job at the helm.

Jason Kidd is as polarizing of a candidate as they come, and sharing in the success of the Los Angeles Lakers winning their 17th championship on Sunday may lead to greater divide.

Kidd was undoubtedly one of the best to lace it up at the point guard position, has a number of players who’ll vouch for him including LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, and is considered to possess wonderful leadership qualities.

On the flip side, Kidd was unable to maximize the talent on the Bucks, attempted to grab greater control in Brooklyn during his lone coaching year, and carries considerable baggage from his playing days. Also, it’s impossible to overlook Kidd’s domestic violence claim brought against him by his ex-wife.

Personally, I would prefer Griffin and the Pelicans avoid the temptation of selecting Kidd for head coach. His history is less than ideal and there’s numerous fantastic potential hires. Yes, Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball would benefit from a leader of men that players gravitate towards, yet there are no assurances the Kidd’s expert tutelage will translate. It didn’t pay expected dividends in his two other head coaching jobs (Bucks, Nets).

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