The New Orleans Pelicans have yet to name an official head coach to succeed Monty Williams but there is one man who has reportedly been interviewed already for the position – Vinny Del Negro.
This bit comes as a surprise since Del Negro wasn't even among the initial batch of names mentioned to take over from Williams. To recall, the names of Jeff Van Gundy, Alvin Gentry and even Steve Nash were among the mentioned names so the sudden inclusion of Del Negro has caught everyone off guard.
Del Negro currently works as an analyst with NBA TV and has had coaching stints with the Bulls and the Clippers in the past.
On both occasions, Del Negro was able to help the Bulls and the Clippers into the playoffs on several occasions. His coaching career record is 210-184.
But it seems that his coaching record is not the basis for his possible selection. It apparently has something to do with his involvement in developing young players. And the first name that comes into mind is of course Anthony Davis who stands to be among the NBA greats someday.
Del Negro of course is no stranger to the NBA. He played for thirteen seasons and has played for various teams. That list includes the Sacramento Kings which drafted him 29th in the 1988 NBA Draft, San Antonio Spurs, Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors and the Phoenix Suns.
Del Negro started his coaching career in 2008 with the Chicago Bulls.
Given his wealth of experience and knack for helping young players, it seems that the Pelicans are focusing on the evolution of Davis which could eventually translate into a winning formula for more playoff appearances for the Pelicans.
Could Del Negro be picked ahead of Van Gundy or Gentry? Such should be interesting though the player development angle makes sense especially for Davis' future with the franchise.
