The NBA’s conference finals are well under way, which means the Wizards are engaged in their most cherished traditions: searching for a new coach and evaluating draft prospects.
While many have sought to bring a level of science to each of these pursuits, there are always factors beyond the scope of analysis. My bright idea over the years was to hire someone with a winning history in the minor leagues. A number of winning coaches, including Phil Jackson, had this profile.
But, so did Dave Joerger, whose personality alienated players, coaches, executives and others, and Nate Bjorkrgen, who lost the Indiana Pacers locker room and got fired after one season.