Adelman, Rockets part ways
Rick Adelman will not return to coach the Houston Rockets in what's described as a "mutual parting," a league source with knowledge of the decision told Yahoo! Sports.
Adelman and Rockets owner Les Alexander didn't have a strong relationship, league sources said. The veteran coach also could be attracted to a possible opening on another team that would offer him a better chance to win.
The Rockets want their new coach to play their young players and embrace their creativity in the free-agent market, which doesn’t sound like a team adamant about winning immediately. Adelman, who turns 65 on June 16, just completed the last year of his contract. Injuries to Yao Ming(notes) – and Tracy McGrady(notes) in past seasons – prevented him from coaching the roster he envisioned he’d have in Houston.
Rockets assistant Elston Turner and former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown are considered to be among the candidates for the job, league sources said.
Y! Sports reported last week that Adelman and the Rockets were close to parting ways. Multiple Houston media outlets first reported Adelman's departure on Monday.
Adelman went 193-135 in four seasons with the Rockets. Houston failed to make the playoffs the past two seasons, despite finishing with a winning record.
