The Sacramento Kings’ search for a head coach is continuing and it is taking an interesting turn. According to Vincent Goodwill, the team is planning on interviewing Indiana Pacers’ assistant Nate McMillan as a candidate for the vacancy opened by the firing of George Karl.
Coaching watch: The Kings have asked Pacers for permission to speak with assistant coach Nate McMillan once playoffs are over, sources say
— Vincent Goodwill (@vgoodwill) April 28, 2016
McMillan last had a head coaching job in Portland where he went 266-268 in his six and a half seasons there. He is well known for his strong defensive principles – the calling card for which he was hired in Indiana – and led the Blazers through some difficult eras.
McMillan has not been in many coaching rumors since the end of this regular season, but he is viewed as one of the top assistants in the league.
The Kings desperately need a coach they can hold on to for a long time after years of instability. McMillan may be the right person for the job as his calm demeanor and experience could help him manage his players, namely DeMarcus Cousins. Additionally, he could improve what has been a traditionally bad Kings’ defense and perhaps launch them into contending for the playoffs once again.
Who knows if McMillan is the right man for the job? But that the Kings are interviewing him and several other young assistants shows a willingness to find a new, fresh head coach that can last for a long time. That stability is what the organization needs and Nate McMillan might be the person to bring it.
