8:15PM: Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo reports that the Clippers have reached out to Jeff Van Gundy in order to gauge his interest in the job. There was neither a discussion about setting up a possible interview nor any indication of whether or not Van Gundy is actually interested.
8:47AM: On Tuesday, Ramona Shelburne of ESPNLosAngeles.com reported that the Clippers had their eye on big-name coaching candidates as they search for Vinny Del Negro's replacement. And according to Dan Woike of the Orange County Register, two candidates in particular seem to be atop the team's wishlist: Jeff Van Gundy and Brian Shaw. Both Van Gundy and Shaw are being "strongly considered" by the Clips, says Woike.
In addition to Van Gundy and Shaw, the Clippers are said to be eyeing current Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins, as well as former NBA head coaches Alvin Gentry, Byron Scott, and Nate McMillan. According to Woike, interviews for the open coaching position could begin as soon as this week.
While his brother doesn't intend to coach next season, Van Gundy hasn't given any indication recently on whether he's open to returning to an NBA bench. However, back in January, Sam Amick of USA Today reported that Van Gundy missed coaching and was expected to explore potential opportunities beginning this summer.
As for Shaw, reports have suggested that he and the Pacers are turning down any and all interview requests until after the team's playoff run is over. So the Clippers will have to wait at least a few more days to speak to Shaw, and perhaps longer than that, if the Pacers manage to upset the Heat.
If Chris Paul re-sign with Clippers. I will prefer Brian Shaw, but I would like to know if if he will bring the Triangle offense as his primary system as a head coach? However, Van G is not a bad choice either.
No offense but with Chris Paul needing the ball in his hands I don’t think the Triangle offense is ideal for him. It was in part designed to compensate for a good pg which is not reacquired to run it effectively as it relies more on passing around the perimeter to get a good shot. It also works better with a good passing 3/4 who can also shot which the Clippers don’t really have. Griffin is close but not there yet.
I think SVG would be an ideal coach for that team. He runs a more wide open offensive system which will fit with Chris Paul’s strengths I.E. passing and court vision. Also fits with the team as he likes to run and shot three’s as well which the Clippers have the right personal for.