To this day, many are wondering why Monty Williams was given the boot by the New Orleans Pelicans despite helping the team reach the NBA playoffs.
Sure it wasn't the most eye-popping milestone for most but Williams seemed to have been getting somewhere. Williams is best known for his playing years and at 38, was the youngest to be hired as an NBA coach.
Apparently the Pelicans were looking for something more and Williams was not the man they felt would lead them to achieve their goals. But that doesn't mean that Williams is a poor coach.
Truth of the matter is, Williams could be coaching again soon if rumors hold true that the Oklahoma City Thunder are interested in hiring him but on an assistant coaching capacity.
Everyone knows by now that Billy Donovan was hired by the Thunder to take over from Scott Brooks, a stint which should be pretty challenging. High expectations hinge on how Donovan is able to improve on Brooks' performance, particularly that memorable run they had during the 2011-12 season where OKC got as far as the NBA Finals.
And Monty Williams may be of assistance, considering the work he has done in New Orleans with Anthony Davis and company. Donovan will need a lot of help trying to mold Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and company and Williams will be given the chance to weave his magic on the youthful but promising team who want more than just making the NBA finals.
Pressure is expected to mount on Donovan and the first thing he has to do is familiarize himself with the NBA style of play and getting tested coaches like Williams is a good step in that direction.
If the Thunder are set on getting Williams, it could happen anytime soon. The question now is on whether Williams would be open to the idea of signing on as an assistant coach.
