The Brooklyn Nets have been on the lookout for a new head coach ever since they let Kenny Atkinson go. Atkinson’s release was surprising, as he had done exceedingly well to lead the team prior to the arrival of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. With a move towards more ambitious coaches for next season, Brooklyn hired Jacque Vaughn for the interim position.
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Vaughn led the Nets into the Orlando Bubble, where they exceeded expectations in the seeding games. They got the seventh seed in the East but were swept by the Toronto Raptors. The Nets were missing almost every starter, and Vaughn took a very weak squad to a strong finish.
Shams Charania of The Athletic has revealed that the Nets have formally interviewed Vaughn to retain his position as coach. While there has been speculation linking the Nets to other coaches, it seems they are starting their search by looking at who is already home.
JUST IN – The Nets have formally interviewed Jacque Vaughn for their head coaching position, and sources tell @ShamsCharania that Vaughn impressed ownership.
— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) September 1, 2020
Brooklyn Nets making the right choice?
The Nets fired Atkinson to get a more experienced and championship-level coach. With coaches like Ty Lue and Gregg Popovich possibly available, it would be a step back to keep Vaughn. This interview could just be a formality with the incumbent. However, Vaughn’s coaching style was impressive in the bubble. Whether it is the style that can bring a championship team together is yet to be seen.
We have seen coaches early in their coaching career succeed quite often. Nick Nurse, Steve Kerr, Ty Lue, and Brad Stevens stand as shining examples. However, not every young coach can have the kind of impact that leads an ambitious team to a title. Considering the Nets have two superstars leading the charge, it makes a coach’s role that much more important. Despite popular belief, coaches are very important to keep squad harmony together in superstar teams.
A lot of teams will be on the lookout for new coaches this off-season. The Nets could play it safe and keep Vaughn in charge. However, better opportunities may pass them by, At the end of the day, they want a championship and they decide the best route to that goal.
