CBSSports.com’s Ken Berger, who has been all over this story, is now reporting that the Rockets will make a format offer to one of their three finalists as soon as today. The Rockets have been engaged in talks with ex-Minnesota Timberwolves coach/GM Kevin McHale, Dallas Mavericks assistant Dwane Casey, and Boston Celtics assistant Lawrence Frank.
A second person familiar with the process told CBSSports.com Thursday night that the Rockets are expected to extend a formal offer to their top choice as early as Friday.
Sources have been told that Frank has been losing ground in the three-man race, but that no clear favorite has emerged. The Rockets have not extended an offer or engaged in contract negotiations with any of the candidates, sources said.
While McHale’s candidacy has been bolstered by a strong recommendation from former Celtics teammate and current Boston president Danny Ainge, sources said Casey is on firm ground by virtue of the fact that he is the only candidate still coaching in the playoffs. Another person with direct knowledge of the interview process said all three candidates have presented compelling visions for the team, but not all aspects of the candidates’ strategies are on the same page with Houston management.
We’re closing in on what will likely be the choice for next Rockets head coach, and fans are still completely in the dark. Perhaps a The Decision-esque special can be planned, with Daryl Morey handing a rose to the coach he likes best? Hey, it worked for LeBron James, didn’t it?
Most Rockets fans seem to be hoping it’s not McHale and pulling for Casey. For more on the search, check back here or at The Dream Shake.