The Minnesota Timberwolves reportedly consider Lionel Hollins, George Karl and Tom Izzo to be potential candidates for the team's head coaching vacancy. While Minnesota hasn't yet contacted Karl, the former Denver Nuggets coach is interested in the opportunity, Darren Wolfson of ESPN reports.
Timberwolves coach Rick Adelman announced his retirement on April 21, prompting Minnesota to begin a search for their next head coach. Minnesota appears to be taking their time, but they reportedly have an eye on a few potential candidates.
"All is relatively quiet, however, after nine official days of the search, and many more behind the scenes," Wolfson wrote on Wednesday. "Sources close to the situation tell 1500espn.com that two strong contenders -- 2013 coach of the year George Karl and former Memphis coach Lionel Hollins -- haven't been contacted yet.
"Contrary to another report, multiple sources indicate that Karl would love the opportunity to coach the Wolves and he's hoping his phone rings soon."
Wolfson also reported the Timberwolves are interested in Izzo. While Izzo has said he is content staying at Michigan State, Wolfson cited an informal poll of college coaches, NBA coaches, front office personnel and agents from last week that indicated they believe Izzo is 50/50 to work in the NBA next season.
Timberwolves president Flip Saunders is a close friend of Izzo, and if Izzo wanted the coaching job, Saunders reportedly wouldn't hesitate to give it to him.
If Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel or Oklahoma City Thunder coach Scott Brooks were to become available, Minnesota is said to have no interest in pursuing either of them.
Saunders has said he won't seek the input of Timberwolves star Kevin Love, but who Minnesota hires could affect whether Love decides to stay in Minnesota beyond the 2015 season.
