Veteran NBA coach John Lucas could soon land an interview as part of Houston’s ongoing search to replace outgoing head coach Mike D’Antoni, reports Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.
Now 66 years old and a basketball lifer, Lucas played in the NBA from 1976 through 1990 and has worked as a coach in most seasons since 1992-93. He’s been director of player deveopment for the Rockets since 2016.
Lucas has proven quite popular with players, including in late August at the NBA “bubble” — when he delivered a powerful message in the aftermath of the Jacob Blake shooting. At the time, the 2019-20 season was on pause, and NBA players were debating how to best use their platform to promote change and whether to proceed with the season.
ICYMI John Lucas, #Rockets player development coach, was one of the coaches who spoke last night during the meeting in Orlando that involved the NBA’s players & coaches. John said his message to the players included: “This was a historical moment for them.They would have to do..” pic.twitter.com/Oo4g9mMSL3
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) August 27, 2020
As a head coach, Lucas compiled a 174–258 overall record (.403) with the San Antonio Spurs (1992-1994), Philadelphia 76ers (1994-1996), and Cleveland Cavaliers (2001-2003). His most successful stint was with the Spurs. when he took over from Jerry Tarkanian (9-11) early in 1992-93 and went 39–22 the rest of the way. In those playoffs, the David Robinson-led group reached the Western Conference semifinals. In 1993-94, the Spurs finished 55–27, but lost in the first round of playoffs.
Lucas’ later stints in Philadelphia and Cleveland were marred by bad timing, with the Sixers and Cavaliers drafting Allen Iverson and LeBron James, respectively, immediately after his departure.
In Houston, Lucas would have the advantage of already knowing the players and the previous system, having worked beneath D’Antoni.
“Our whole mission will be to let’s get them physically and mentally ready to go into the playoffs. That’s the whole deal.”
On the importance of safe spaces, John Lucas, his relationship with the roster, and why it’s more important than you think. https://t.co/NQgnZRBJLm
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) July 8, 2020
The current list of Houston candidates is believed to include recent Los Angeles Clippers assistants Ty Lue and Sam Cassell; former Brooklyn head coach Kenny Atkinson; Dallas assistant Stephen Silas; Denver assistant Wes Unseld Jr.; Minnesota assistant David Vanterpool; and former Houston head coach Jeff Van Gundy (2003-2007).
There is no clear timetable for a hire. The search is being led by GM Daryl Morey, who historically has chosen to control the assistant hires, as well. As a result, it’s possible that some of these names could still be in play for the new coach’s staff, even if they are not picked for the head job.
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As Houston embarks on the search for their next head coach, you’d have to think their assistant coaches will get the chance to interview.
Jon Lucas is a name that should be talked about more. Understands the system and has the respect of every player.
— Kelly Iko (@KellyIkoNBA) September 16, 2020
New #Rockets at #TXSN – Rockets' coaching search moves to next phase https://t.co/2S6pCR1CvJ
— Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen) October 2, 2020