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Golden State Warriors could lose top assistant after McMillan firing

By Peter O'Keefe

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 25: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors reacts with Kenny Atkinson after a technical foul during the second half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on October 25, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Warriors 134-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 25: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors reacts with Kenny Atkinson after a technical foul during the second half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on October 25, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Warriors 134-105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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The Atlanta Hawks are the newest NBA team on the search for a head coach after they announced the firing of Nate McMillan on Tuesday. Possible replacements for the 58-year-old have already been reported, which could have an impact on the Golden State Warriors.

The Hawks remain in the Eastern Conference playoff mix sitting eighth with a 29-30 record, though there’s been murmums of unhappiness in what’s been a disappointing season to date. After a big offseason splash in which they acquired Dejounte Murray from the San Antonio Spurs, it became clear that something had to give at the static franchise.

Golden State Warriors’ top assistant Kenny Atkinson is likely to be on the Atlanta Hawks’ radar as they seek a new head coach for next season.

According to The Athletics’ Shams Charania, Steve Kerr’s right hand man, Kenny Atkinson, is one name that’s expected to be a candidate for the now vacant position. He may not be Atlanta’s top priority though, with former Utah Jazz head coach Quin Snyder likely to be in the mix.

Atkinson had his own coaching dramas late last season in what resulted as a quite comical turn of events. The 55-year-old had agreed to become the new head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, only to turn his back on the franchise and remain in The Bay following Golden State’s triumphant 2022 Finals win. He assumed the mantle as Kerr’s leading assistant after Mike Brown departed to become head coach of the Sacramento Kings.

Although the Warriors have stalled to just a 29-29 record this season, Charlotte’s horrific 17-43 standing suggests he probably made the right decision in remaining with the NBA champions. Atkinson joined Golden State ahead of last season, having been head coach of the Brooklyn Nets for nearly four years.

Next. No more outside support forthcoming as targets shun Golden State Warriors. dark

Atkinson’s successful application for the Hornets position proved to be no distraction as the Warriors lifted the Larry O’Brien Trophy last year. They’ll now look to repeat the dose again over the coming months.

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