Fansided

5 NBA coaches most likely to be fired this season

By Kyle Neubeck

May 29, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks speaks to the media after the loss to the San Antonio Spurs in game five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. San Antonio won 117-89. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
May 29, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks speaks to the media after the loss to the San Antonio Spurs in game five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. San Antonio won 117-89. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 16, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans head coach Monty Williams against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter of a game at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 16, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans head coach Monty Williams against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter of a game at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

Monty Williams — New Orleans Pelicans

Even with an infusion of youth in the coaching ranks via recently retired players and college converts, Monty Williams remains one of the youngest coaches in the NBA. At just 42 years old, he’s nearer to the beginning of his coaching career than the end. He’s well-regarded in most circles, and even has Olympic chops as an assistant with USA Basketball. Though he may have room to grow as he gains more experience, Williams will be expected to produce results with a roster that was assembled to push for the playoffs now.

The Pelicans are pushing the boundaries of the salary cap this season, and last year’s lottery finish is simply not good enough with the talent on hand. They have a budding superstar in Anthony Davis, an All-Star point guard in Jrue Holiday, scoring punch from Tyreke Evans and a multitude of other pieces that will help fill in the blanks in between. Injuries derailed the Pels in their inaugural season under a new moniker, but they should expect both better injury luck and natural progression from at least a couple of their young studs.

If that doesn’t lead to more wins, the Pelicans may have to explore other options at head coach. Williams’ sometimes puzzling rotation will be scrutinized with a harsher lens now that Davis has begun his ascent. With Omer Asik on board to help rebound and protect the rim, 2013-14’s defensive mockery isn’t acceptable. There will be no shortage of suitors should the Pelicans need a more capable steward for Davis and Co. — Williams must win now.

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