Former Lakers player and current Indiana Pacers assistant Brian Shaw has emerged as the frontrunner to replace fired Vinny Del Negro as Clippers coach, according to ESPN.
Less than a day after the Pacers' season ended in a Game 7 Eastern Conference finals lost to the defending champion Heat, the Clippers had sought and been granted to speak with Shaw, who is also rumored to be under serious consideration by the Brooklyn Nets in feeling their vacancy.
Though L.A. also plans to speak with Memphis Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins, sources told ESPN Shaw is now considered the team’s top choice, adding that his youth and exuberance as well as the rapport he developed in Indiana with star Paul George and up-and-comer Lance Stephenson have greatly impressed team management.
Current Clips reserve Lamar Odom, who played under Shaw when he was an assistant under Phil Jackson with the Lakers, has also endorsed hid former coach. The Clippers are also believed to have already spoken with several former coaches as candidates, among them Jeff Van Gundy, Byron Scott and Alvin Gentry.
ESPN also reported the Nets have been given permission to speak with Hollins, whose contract with the Grizzlies expires at the end of the month.
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