Chris

Wallace

“We’re always looking for ways to grow as an organization and Chris Wallace and Matt Bullard both have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will aid in our decision-making processes,” said Rockets’ GM Rafael Stone in a statement following the announcement of Wallace and Bullard’s hirings.

Wallace’s future is largely in doubt with the Grizzlies, and sources told ESPN that his interview with Kings new owner Vivek Ranadive went so well that it stretched into a second day. Wallace has received “strong backing” from Jerry West, something that Ranadive will likely put solid stock into given their relationship from working together with the Warriors. Geoff Petrie’s time as the Kings leader is essentially over. Stein notes that Mike Dunleavy is expected to get an interview as well.

Take it with a large grain of salt. Both guys have been mentioned as candidates with Wallace having been reported as a frontrunner previously, but it’s too early to make any call with the interview process still rolling on. We’d be shocked if Dunleavy wound up in the front office under Sacramento’s new ownership.

Lee is the head of Brooklyn’s analytics department and could replace current GM Chris Wallace in some form. Wallace has been linked as a candidate for the Kings’ GM gig and appears on his way out of Memphis after his role was drastically reduced following an ownership change earlier the year. The front-office shuffle included the hiring of former ESPN analyst John Hollinger, who has been heavily involved in the NBA’s burgeoning analytics movement.

Wallace, who is currently the favorite, only widened his lead in the race, according to Stein. It sounds like it’s only a matter of time until Wallace is named Geoff Petrie’s replacement.

Wallace was reported as the frontrunner previously, and that still seems to be the case. With his role diminished in Memphis, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Wallace ultimately tabbed as the Kings choice. Spurs assistant GM Scott Layden as well as former NBA GM Rick Sund are also in the mix.

Fizdale is currently believed to be the frontrunner to secure the head coaching position with the Grizzlies after making a “strong impression” with GM Chris Wallace, although Spurs’ assistant coach James Borrego remains in the running.

“I am pleased to announce that our Basketball Operations executive team, led by General Manager, Chris Wallace, will continue to lead our franchise for years to come,” majority owner Robert Pera said. “Chris, John and Ed bring a wealth of NBA experience and success, and have done a tremendous job establishing the strong culture that I believe is necessary to ensure sustained success in this ultra-competitive environment.”

There have been conflicting reports on this, but Wallace was definitive in his response. “I never interviewed for a job with Kings,” he said. “I’ve been in Memphis [nine] years, I’m not interested going anywhere. This has been the best run in my career. Why would I want to leave? You can quote me.” At this juncture, it’s a moot point with the Kings having filled the position.

In addition to Messina, the Grizzlies have also received permission to interview Heat assistant coach David Fizdale. The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported earlier in the week than Frank Vogel was the frontrunner for the job, but it’s worth noting that Vogel is meeting with the Magic this week as well. Patrick Ewing and Jeff Hornacek are also candidates for the job, so this coaching search appears to be far from over.