Replacing Bud: Eight Potential New Head Coaches For The Hawks

OAKLAND, CA - MARCH 23: Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Atlanta Hawks looks on against the Golden State Warriors during an NBA basketball game at ORACLE Arena on March 23, 2018 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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SAN ANTONIO, TX – APRIL 02: Head coach Jay Wright of the Villanova Wildcats /

Jay Wright

The Villanova coach is quickly making a name for himself as one of the best college basketball coaches of recent memory. Just like the Celtics did with Brad Stevens a few years ago, pairing a coach known for developing young talent with a rebuilding team is usually a recipe for success.

The Knicks are a step ahead of the Hawks however, showing interest basically immediately after firing former coach Jeff Hornacek. Wright’s agent stepped in quickly, telling the New York Post: “He’s under contract with Villanova and he’s very, very happy there, There’s no plans to leave.’’

While that sounds pretty definitive, Wright himself hasn’t made a comment. If he were ever to make the leap to the pros, this year would be the year. He has the rare chance to follow three of his players into the NBA as Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges and Donte DiVincenzo are all expected to be first round picks in the upcoming draft.

If he does suddenly show interest in joining the NBA, the Hawks could share mutual interest with Wright because of their young roster loaded with potential and the possibility to continue coaching one (or more) of his former players.

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