James Borrego speaks to the media after being hired as Head Coach
As the NBA offseason heats up, the fate of New Orleans Pelicans assistant head coach James Borrego hangs in the balance, with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers vying for his services.
Borrego, who has already been interviewed by both franchises, appears to be leaning towards Cleveland, according to recent reports. Marc Stein of The Stein Line suggests that Borrego is closer to receiving an offer from the Cavaliers than from the Lakers, potentially solidifying his future in Ohio.
“If Borrego lands in Cleveland, it could leave the Lakers with fewer top-tier options,” Stein noted in his Substack.
League insiders also seem to favor Borrego’s candidacy with the Cavaliers, positioning him as the frontrunner to replace the departed J.B. Bickerstaff.
Alongside Borrego, the Cavaliers have explored other coaching options, including NBA veterans Kenny Atkinson and Dave Joerger. Atkinson, known for his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets and current role with the Golden State Warriors, brings a strong developmental background. Joerger, who coached the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings, offers extensive experience in leading NBA squads.
Borrego’s coaching resume includes a stint with the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022, where he navigated a competitive Eastern Conference landscape but fell short of playoff success. His potential move to Cleveland, however, presents a fresh opportunity to harness the talents of a team that has shown postseason promise.
The Cavaliers, coming off consecutive playoff appearances, are at a pivotal juncture in their offseason strategy. Speculation swirls around potential roster changes, with stars like Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley subject to trade rumors. Securing a new head coach like Borrego hinges on assurances about the team’s core going forward.
Of particular interest is Mitchell, whose contract situation looms large as he approaches a pivotal player option. Cleveland’s ability to lock in key extensions for Mitchell, Allen, and Mobley will likely factor into Borrego’s decision-making process.
As Borrego mulls his options between Cleveland and Los Angeles, the Cavaliers are poised to make a compelling case for his leadership, aiming to build on recent playoff strides and solidify their roster for the future.
