Sources: Darko Rajakovic will be the Raptors' new head coach
Posted : 11 June 2023
Sources have revealed that the Toronto Raptors have chosen Darko Rajakovic, an assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies, to be their next head coach. The offer was extended to Rajakovic on Saturday, and both parties are currently finalizing the details of his contract.
Rajakovic, who hails from Serbia, emerged as the top candidate during an extensive selection process, impressing Raptors President Masai Ujiri and General Manager Bobby Webster with his qualifications to succeed Nick Nurse.
With Rajakovic's appointment, all head coaching positions in the NBA have now been filled.
Rajakovic's coaching journey began in 2012 when he arrived from Serbia to serve as a G League head coach for the Oklahoma City Thunder. He later transitioned to the Thunder's bench and subsequently worked for the Phoenix Suns before joining the Grizzlies. He eventually earned the position of top assistant under Taylor Jenkins in Memphis.
According to sources, the Raptors sought a coach who could lead a competitive team if they continue with their current veteran roster, as well as guide a rebuilding squad if the team decides to transition towards younger players and draft assets.
Kenny Atkinson from the Golden State Warriors and Charles Lee from the Milwaukee Bucks were also seriously considered during the coaching search, sources added.
Toronto made the decision to part ways with Nurse after finishing the season with a 41-41 record and losing to the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament's 9-10 game.
ADD A COMMENT :
Hot Topics
User name is required Email Id is required Comment is required
ADD A COMMENT :