Report: Hornets to begin coaching search including Atkinson, Ham

While the second round of the playoffs are ongoing, the Charlotte Hornets have began their head coaching search.

After just four seasons at the helm, James Borrego was relieved of his duties following Charlotte’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks in the play-in tournament.

First reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Hornets are beginning their search, which includes Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson, Bucks assistant Darvin Ham, Mavericks assistant Sean Sweeney, and long-time head coach Mike D’Antoni.

Ham finds himself to be a popular candidate, as he’s already been pinpointed as a potential target for the Los Angeles Lakers. The 10-year NBA veteran has interviewed for numerous openings in the past few years and is due to get his first head coaching job.

Kenny Atkinson helped rebuild the Brooklyn Nets from 2016-20, including a playoff appearance in 2018-19, before Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving arrived, leading to his departure as the franchise chose to go in another direction. He’s now been an assistant for the last two seasons for the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors.

Sean Sweeney should quickly become a hot coaching candidate around the league for his part in improving the defense of the Dallas Mavericks alongside head coach Jason Kidd. Sweeney worked on Kidd’s staff while in Milwaukee as well, and worked very closely with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Mike D’Antoni and his offense would be quite the pairing with the Hornets’ young group, led by LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. D’Antoni last served as an assistant coach for the Brooklyn Nets last season alongside his former player Steve Nash. D’Antoni already has a relationship with Mitch Kupchak, who worked together during their time with the Lakers from 2012-14.

Stay tuned to Lonzo Wire for updates on Charlotte’s coaching search.

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Story originally appeared on Lonzo Wire