General manager Will Dawkins suggested that head coach Brian Keefe was expected to remain in DMV next season, but it didn't stop reporters from linking the Washington Wizards to a top head coaching candidate ahead of the offseason.
Washington was one of several teams tied to Taylor Jenkins as the offseason kicked off for non-playoff teams.
The Wizards have made it clear that they'll do what they deem best for the organization, especially if it gets them one step closer to competing in the Eastern Conference.
And while Keefe has been an excellent developmental coach during his time in D.C., questions remained about whether or not Washington could get over the hump with the head coach leading the ship moving forward.
Washington is no longer looking to just develop young talent, but they're looking to do so alongside a superstar duo in Anthony Davis and Trae Young, which is why a fit with Jenkins appealed to many.
However, for anybody dreaming about Jenkins taking the job in the nation's capital this offseason, the Milwaukee Bucks made sure to put an end to their hopes.
Bucks name Taylor Jenkins as head coach
Following the decision from Hall of Fame head coach Doc Rivers to step away from the team following the regular season finale, the Bucks wasted no time searching for their next leader.
Milwaukee was another team linked to Jenkins, and when the news leaked that the team was interviewing the former Memphis Grizzlies' head coach, it didn't come as much of a surprise.
However, how quickly the Bucks moved to hire the coaching candidate after their interview is what comes as a surprise.
Then again considering how many teams were interested, its not much of a shock to see Milwaukee move fast, especially with his history with the team.
Regardless, now the Wizards will likely be forced to stick to their guns, even if there was doubt they would before.
Wizards will likely be forced to stick with Brian Keefe
Washington seems determined to see Keefe's potential to lead this new-look roster filled with talent, but it could also hinge on whether or not a candidate that the WIzards are interested in becomes available.
Michael Malone is already off the table, and now Jenkins becomes yet another coaching candidate to be removed from the equation before Washington can truly consider a change.
All that to say, the Wizards will likely give Keefe one final season to see if there's any progress with a more talented roster or if a change at the top is needed.
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