What a way to wake up on a Monday morning. The rumor mill is running at full speed today. The lastest news has John Weisbrod stepping down as the Magic's GM. Of course, this fuels speculation as to who might be see as the next coach of the Orlando Magic.
We already know the top candidates for the head boaching position. So, is Weisbrod resigning to join a hockey team? Was he forced out due to media and fan pressure? Or simply, did Weisbrod serve as the Magic's henchman for a year to clean house and do the the unpopular job no one wanted.
Even when the smoke clears, I doubt there will be a clear cut answer as to why Weisbrod is stepping down. However, I believe that all the rumors of his departure may play a role in the reshaping of the Magic. Weisbrod did the ugly work. Simply put, he transformed the mindset of the team and management. Orlando is no longer happy with a mediocre team. Whether the owners were behind the moves Weisbrod made or he made them on his own, this franchise grew up last summer.
Can we reasonably expect to see a Phil Jackson or Flip Saunders on the Orlando bench next year? I doubt Phil Jackson is interested, however it would be a great team for him to coach into the finals. It would go against his past experience by starting with an unproven team. Flip Saunders seems to be the more logical candidate. Moving Weisbrod out of the decision making process, opens the door for a proven head coach. Most coaches want final say in any and all player transactions. Weisbrod simply was putting together his team and that would not mix well with a Saunders type of coach.
Whatever the reason or result of this news, you can expect big announcements in the next 24-48 hours. The Magic will move quick to fill the open positions. My guess, we'll see Flip Saunders named as Head Coach and President of Basketball Operations and Otis Smith promoted into the role of General Manager. This paves the way for Saunders to have the final say in all personnel decisions
I agree with what you said although I think the timing of the weisbrod announcement would lead to speculation that the next magic coach might have the kind of prestige and clout to want to be both coach and g.m. It would have to be someone of at least saunders stature .
I just don't know the Orlando Magic would give in to the idea of having a coach serve as GM as well. I think having final say in personnel decissions is the deal maker here. You don't have to be GM to accomplish that. Besides, you need some level of checks and balances in any business.