Mosley, strong candidate for Magic coach

The Orlando Magic are closing in on Dallas Mavericks assistant Jamahl Mosley, who has emerged as the frontrunner to become the franchise’s next head coach, sources told ESPN on Thursday.

The talks continue, but Mosley, 42, has parted ways in the organizing process, sources told ESPN.

As the Magic move toward a full rebuild with a core of young players and the fifth and eighth overall picks in this month’s NBA draft, Mosley’s reputation for player development, his ability to build relationships and hold accountable to the players has resonated with Magic management.

The Magic are looking to replace Steve Clifford, who mutually parted ways with the team after reaching the Playoffs in consecutive years before the trade deadline deals, which included the All-Star. Nikola Vucevic (Chicago Bulls) and Evan fournier (Boston Celtics), put the Magic into rebuilding mode.

The Magic process had been narrowed down to two candidates, including Denver assistant Wes Unseld Jr., who has also emerged as a top candidate for the Washington Wizards vacancy, sources said.

Mosely’s role with the Mavericks for the past seven years has notably included his close connection and impactful work with the point guard. Luka doncic. After Mosley replaced Carlisle in quarantine in the Mavericks’ victory at Madison Square Garden, Doncic told Mosley reporters: “You’ve got the stuff for a head coach.”

Mosley had also emerged as a finalist for the Wizards head coach job, sources told ESPN. In the past two years, Mosley has become a serious contender for head coach vacancies and is now poised to work his way up to become the Magic’s coach.

Mosley spent the past seven years with the Mavericks under Rick Carlisle, rising to the role of associate head coach. Mosley spent four years with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2010-2014) and Denver Nuggets (2005-2010). Mosley’s offensive philosophy has been shaped by two Hall of Fame-level coaches: George Karl and Carlisle.

Mosley was not drafted from the University of Colorado in 2005, but played overseas for four years before embarking on his NBA job, with a player development role with the Nuggets.

Beyond the two lottery picks in the draft, the Magic have a young core of players that includes recent first-round picks, Cole Anthony, Chuma okeke, Mo bamba Y Wendell Carter Jr. The Magic have the potential $ 30 million salary cap, a good space to spend in free agency.