7. Charles Lee
The 38-year-old is one of the prominent young assistant coaches that is gaining traction for his first head gig in the NBA. Lee played college basketball at Bucknell and has four years of professional experience overseas before heading into coaching. He spent two years at his alma mater before joining Mike Budenholzer’s staff in Atlanta in 2014. He followed Bud to Milwaukee where he is currently associate head coach.
Lee has interviewed for several head coaching openings this offseason, and he could land a job any day.
Why does Charles Lee fit in Philadelphia? He is known as a player’s coach and plays a key role in player development. Philly is hoping that Tyrese Maxey can become an All-Star, and players like De’Anthony Melton still have room to grow. The Sixers want to win now, and they will not have a ton of flexibility to improve their roster. Internal growth from some of their young talent could be massive in taking the next step.
It would be surprising to see the Philadelphia 76ers hire a first-time head coach because they have championship aspirations. There are two head coaches in the conference finals right now that are in their first season, so do not rule it out. If they go in that direction, Charles Lee deserves consideration.