Wiz of Awes
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4 head coaches who could replace Unseld Jr if Wizards decide to move on

By Cem Yolbulan

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Boston Celtics during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 28, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: Head coach Wes Unseld Jr. of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Boston Celtics during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 28, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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Kenny Atkinson

Despite being a lower-profile name compared to the other coaches on this list, Kenny Atkinson is a very well-respected figure in the basketball world. Currently an assistant coach with the Golden State Warriors, Atkinson is regularly a frontrunner for head coach openings around the league.

Atkinson owes much of his reputation to his four seasons as a head coach of the Brooklyn Nets between 2016 and 2020. He made a name for himself as a player development-focused coach who helped the Nets overachieve with relatively limited rosters. In fact, the system he built in Brooklyn was credited for enticing Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant to sign there in 2019.

Even though he is generally known as a player development coach, Atkinson has plenty of experience working with stars as well. Following the Nets, he spent a season as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers, before moving to the Golden State Warriors. He was an integral part of Steve Kerr’s coaching staff that won the 2022 NBA championship.

Working under Steve Kerr and one of the best systems in the NBA is a blessing for any coach. Any team that hires Atkinson would benefit immensely from his Golden State experience. And if that team is the Washington Wizards, there are additional benefits.

Atkinson and Jordan Poole worked closely for two seasons at Golden State. He knows Poole’s strengths and weaknesses better than any coach. That familiarity could help Poole blossom into the team leader the Wizards are hoping for.

Moreover, the Wizards are desperately seeking to build good habits and a winning culture in Washington. There is no better winning culture than the Warriors organization. If Atkinson can bring that mentality with him, he could be at the helm for the next great Wizards team. That is a win for both sides.

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