The Denver Nuggets have interviewed David Vanterpool, an assistant coach for the Portland Trail Blazers, according to Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski.
Here is what Woj had to say about the chances of Vanterpool getting the gig:
Portland Trail Blazers assistant David Vanterpool interviewed for the Denver Nuggets‘ head coaching job, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Interim coach Melvin Hunt remains a strong candidate for the Denver job, along with Michael Malone and Mike D’Antoni, league sources said.
While Vanterpool isn’t considered a frontrunner to replace Brian Shaw, Denver general manager Tim Connelly’s discussion with Vanterpool in recent days is reflective of the respect Vanterpool’s earned in three seasons an NBA assistant coach.
Vanterpool interviewed for the Philadelphia 76ers’ head coaching job in 2013.
Vanterpool has developed a strong reputation for his work with All-Star guard Damian Lillard and 2013 first-round pick C.J. McCollum. Vanterpool has grown into a significant part of Portland coach Terry Stotts’ tactical preparation in their three successful seasons together.
He's just 42 years-old and known for being a strong player development guy. In the article Woj also notes that after his playing career in Russia, Vanterpool joined Ettore Messina's staff with CSKA Moscow. Messina is currently an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs. Messian won four EuroLeague championships and was one of the most respected European coaches, before jumping to the NBA. Vanterpool has had plenty of success on his NBA journey, as well. Both the Thunder and Blazers have been enjoying much success, and Vanterpool sounds like a good cog in those wheels.
Interesting to note that Woj says Vanterpool isn’t considered a frontrunner. Not totally sure what to make of that. Sounds like the Nuggets are doing their due diligence in talking to well-respected guys around the league. Vanterpool would be the youngest guy the Nuggets have talked to thus far, if we are to believe reports about the coaching search.
So, this doesn't really get Nuggets Nation closer to a coach, perhaps nothing ever will. Maybe the Nuggets are destined to be coach-less this upcoming season, or maybe they'll make a hire soon. As has been the case with this saga, the wait continues.
The Nuggets have stated that they'd like to get a coach in place by the June 25th draft, but some local reporters have said on their various mediums that team executives were hopeful to get a coach in place on a two-week timetable – that would set the mark of June 10th. But going off what Josh Kroenke and Tim Connelly have said, the June 25th date is the only one that has been made public by the team.
While some frustration mounts in this search from fans and media members alike, we will have to wait until a hire is made to see how the pieces have come together. They say that waiting is the hardest part.
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