Rumor: Orlando Magic to Name New Head Coach

The Orlando Magic and Jason Kidd are expected to connect over the next 48 hours and from all accounts it sounds like Kidd will be named the newest head coach of the organization.

The Los Angeles Lakers granted the Magic permission to speak to their current assistant coach and the interview is expected to take place either Tuesday or Wednesday. Kidd was wanted by Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard to be their new bench boss, but he ended up pulling his name out of the running. 

Kidd has been the head coach in Brooklyn with the Nets and with the Milwaukee Bucks and as mentioned, more recently serving as an assistant with the Lakers. The Magic mutually parted ways with Steve Clifford after three seasons at the helm. The 48-year-old Kidd has compiled a 183-190 record, and did reach the postseason three of the five years he coached. 

The Magic have also interviewed former Blazers head coach Terry Stotts, and San Antonio Spurs assistant Becky Hammon. 

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports