Just saw this at the Palm Beach Post: http://www.palmbeachpost.com/blogs/...h/Heat/entries/2008/04/28/riley_could_be.html
The Sun-Sentinel is reporting the same. Looks like Riley's coaching days have finally ended: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketball/heat/sfl-heatriley042808,0,2626288.story
Good. I hope he makes it a final decision, too. I also hope he keeps his president role. Riley is an All-Time great head coach, and I will never forget June 20, 2006. Never. However, it's time to move forward with the franchise, and hopefully we can land a young coach who can grow with hopefully a young team.
Seems like he's Dwayne Wade's guy. I wonder if they hired/promoted him out of concern that D-Wade may really bolt after this contract ends? I never seriously thought about it as I assumed that he would want to remain a Heat forever.
I was just taking a guess in Spoelstra, nice to see him get a chance. He seems a little too nice for my liking, but Riley has a great track record of promoting assistants.
That may have pushed the decision, but Pat Riley has been grooming Spoelstra to be his successor the last few seasons. Dwyane Wade actually pushed for him, though. In this league, it's a necessity to keep your superstar(s) happy.
Combine this with the fact that an established coach is gonna want a little more than a Heat team that could only win 15 games all year. Even the Sonics and Memphis picked up 5+ wins more, and they play in the West.
I guess the next logical question becomes: Will Riley return to coach the team once they become good again?
That's the million dollar question that no one knows. Honestly, Riley is so enamored with Derrick Rose that I wouldn't be surprised if he comes back if Miami lands the top pick and selects Rose.
I wonder if they hire another Van Gundy. Then Riley can shaft another one whenever the team gets better.
Yes, I know. I was just joking. Spoelstra's not a bad coach. Should be able to get Heat into the playoffs next year in the East (doesn't say much but still noteworthy).