With the 2025-26 NBA season coming to a close, 27 of the league’s 30 teams have shifted focus to the offseason. Four franchises remain in search of a new head coach, and recent history has shown how important that decision can be. Just one year after firing their coach following an Eastern Conference Finals appearance, the Knicks are now playing for their first championship since 1973.
The offseason originally opened with six vacancies, but two were quickly filled. The Bucks hired Taylor Jenkins, while the Pelicans hired Jahmal Mosley after he was fired by Orlando. That leaves the Mavericks, Bulls, Trail Blazers, and Magic still searching for answers.
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The Mavericks began their offseason by hiring Masai Ujiri as President of Basketball Operations before mutually parting ways with Jason Kidd. Dallas has talent, but little direction. The roster mixes NBA veterans nearing the end of their careers with young players still developing.
The Mavericks have key pieces in Cooper Flagg, Kyrie Irving, and the ninth overall pick in a loaded draft class. Assistants Sean Sweeney and Micah Nori feel like the most realistic fits for a young roster searching for identity.
Chicago Bulls
Chicago also cleaned house, firing its Executive VP, General Manager, and head coach, Billy Donovan. The Bulls still have intriguing pieces in Matas Buzelis, Josh Giddey, and the fourth overall pick, but the franchise’s draft history creates skepticism.
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Former No. 4 pick Patrick Williams never developed. If Dallas hires Sweeney or Nori, Chicago should pursue the other, though the Bulls feel more inclined to take another young coach, Dave Bliss.
Portland Trail Blazers
Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson warms up before the game against the New York Knicks at Moda Center.
The Blazers have an attractive opening. Scoot Henderson and Deni Avdija headline a promising young core that finally gives the franchise direction after years near the bottom.
The Trail Blazers do not need a complete rebuild. They need a developmental coach capable of growing with the roster, building culture, and helping the team take the next step toward playoff contention. They’ll likely stay in the building and hire Tiago Splitter.
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Orlando’s vacancy carries the most pressure. The Magic moved on from Jahmal Mosley despite another playoff appearance, signaling the organization believes it is ready to contend now.
Led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Orlando already has talent and a defensive identity. What the Magic need now is an experienced coach capable of elevating a playoff team into a legitimate contender. I see them going with Billy Donovan.
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