Portland Trail Blazers assistant David Vanterpool interviewed for the Denver Nuggets’ head coaching job, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Interim coach Melvin Hunt remains a strong candidate for the Denver job, along with Michael Malone and Mike D’Antoni, league sources said.
While Vanterpool isn’t considered a frontrunner to replace Brian Shaw, Denver general manager Tim Connelly’s discussion with Vanterpool in recent days is reflective of the respect Vanterpool’s earned in three seasons an NBA assistant coach. ...
Vanterpool has developed a strong reputation for his work with All-Star guard Damian Lillard and 2013 first-round pick C.J. McCollum. Vanterpool has grown into a significant part of Portland coach Terry Stotts’ tactical preparation in their three successful seasons together.
Denver wants to have a head coach in place in advance of the rapidly-approaching June 25 NBA Draft, which is the reason for the recent intensification of the team’s search.
Mike D’Antoni and Mike Malone have been candidates considered for the position, though Melvin Hunt, who did a fantastic job as interim coach (when he was allowed to) last season, remains a frontrunner for the position.