The 2024 NBA offseason brought some major shakeups, with teams making bold coaching changes that could have a lasting impact on the upcoming season. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces, several franchises are banking on new leadership to turn their fortunes around. In this review, we’re diving into seven of the most significant coaching moves, grading each team’s decisions, and analyzing how these hires might shape the future. Whether it’s a seasoned coach returning home or an unproven hire stepping into the spotlight, here’s a breakdown of the offseason’s biggest moves.
1. Detroit Pistons: Monty Williams Out, J.B. Bickerstaff In
Grade: B-
The Pistons were hoping Monty Williams could bring his coaching magic to a struggling franchise, but after a disastrous 14-68 season, Williams found himself on the way out. While it’s hard to place all the blame on Williams, it was evident the franchise needed a shake-up. The Pistons have now brought in J.B. Bickerstaff, fresh off his stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Bickerstaff’s arrival is intriguing, but it’s a high-risk move for a team that has seen too much instability. The challenge for Bickerstaff will be to find a way to build cohesion and development within a young roster. While his tenure in Cleveland showed promise, he ultimately failed to get the Cavs deep into the postseason. Detroit fans will be hoping he can foster growth and build a more competitive team, but expectations remain tempered.
2. Los Angeles Lakers: Darvin Ham Out, JJ Redick In
Grade: C+
In a surprise move, the Lakers parted ways with Darvin Ham after an underwhelming playoff performance, replacing him with former NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick. While Redick’s basketball IQ is unquestionable, this is a high-risk gamble on an unproven coach. Redick’s friendship with LeBron James may have played a role in this hiring, raising some eyebrows in the league.
Redick must earn the trust of a veteran-laden roster and show that he can translate his game knowledge into successful coaching strategies. The Lakers’ championship window is small, and hiring an inexperienced coach could backfire. This move feels more like a gamble than a calculated decision, and time will tell if it pays off.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers: J.B. Bickerstaff Out, Kenny Atkinson In
Grade: A-
The Cavaliers significantly upgraded by parting ways with J.B. Bickerstaff and bringing in Kenny Atkinson. Bickerstaff’s tenure with Cleveland wasn’t a complete failure, but the franchise felt it was time to take the next step. Atkinson, who spent the last few seasons as an assistant with the Golden State Warriors, is known for his developmental prowess and ability to maximize talent.
Atkinson takes over a roster led by Donovan Mitchell and a solid supporting cast. His experience in player development should help push this team further into contention. The Cavaliers are in a win-now mode, and Atkinson is well-positioned to lead them deeper into the playoffs, making this one of the most promising offseason coaching hires.
4. Phoenix Suns: Frank Vogel Out, Mike Budenholzer In
Grade: A
Despite making the playoffs four consecutive years, the Phoenix Suns couldn’t get over the hump. Frank Vogel was let go after failing to bring cohesion to a talented but disjointed roster. Enter Mike Budenholzer, a coach with a championship pedigree and a track record of success with the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks.
Budenholzer, an Arizona native, inherits one of the most talented rosters in the league, with stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker leading the charge. His ability to foster team chemistry and get the most out of his players will be essential. This hire feels like the perfect match, and the Suns are in prime position to contend for a title under Budenholzer’s leadership.
5. Charlotte Hornets: Steve Clifford Out, Charles Lee In
Grade: B
After another disappointing season, the Hornets parted ways with veteran coach Steve Clifford and brought in Charles Lee, a young coach from the Budenholzer coaching tree. Lee has worked under Budenholzer with both the Bucks and Celtics and brings a fresh perspective to a rebuilding franchise.
The Hornets are looking to develop their young talent, and Lee is tasked with nurturing this core. While it remains to be seen whether he can take them to the next level, his coaching philosophy aligns well with the team’s long-term goals. This hire could be the beginning of something special in Charlotte, though patience will be essential as Lee finds his footing as a head coach.
6. Brooklyn Nets: Kevin Ollie Out, Jordi Fernandez In
Grade: B+
After a rough season, the Brooklyn Nets decided to move on from interim coach Kevin Ollie and brought in Jordi Fernandez, a young coach who has worked under Mike Malone in Denver and has extensive G League head coaching experience. Fernandez’s reputation as a player development coach makes him an exciting hire for the Nets looking to rebuild and grow their young talent.
With six draft picks next year and a mid-tier roster, Fernandez will have plenty of opportunities to shape the team’s future. He’s an up-and-comer in the coaching ranks, and his fresh approach might be what the Nets need to re-establish themselves as playoff contenders.