Another NBA head coaching job opens as Carlisle leaves Mavs originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
After 13 seasons with the Mavericks, Rick Carlisle is stepping down as head coach.
Owner Mark Cuban ensured the public that Carlisle’s job was safe after a second-straight first-round exit from the playoffs, but now Dallas becomes the sixth head coaching job to open up before the end of the playoffs.
Along with the Mavs, the Celtics, Pacers, Pelicans, Trail Blazers, Magic and Wizards are all looking for another head coach. The Wizards parted ways with Scott Brooks on Wednesday and have even more competition for a top head coach seemingly with each passing day.
The Bucks are down 3-2 to the Nets and are at risk of getting eliminated from the playoffs on Thursday in Milwaukee. If they bow out in the second round for the second consecutive year, head coach Mike Budeholzer’s job could be in jeopardy and create yet another opening.
Carlisle became the Mavs’ head coach in 2008 and helped lead them to a championship in 2011. He has a 863-689 record as a head coach in the NBA and would be a top candidate for another job if he wants one.