Houston Rockets: Mike D’Antoni extension talks have resurfaced

The Houston Rockets have had quite a bit of news this offseason already, and the NBA Finals aren’t even over yet. Multiple coaching-related stories have surfaced, including one today.

The Houston Rockets have been a bit of a mess so far this offseason as they try to figure out how to move forward into the future. They want to improve the roster, and anyone on the team (minus James Harden) is available through trade if it will make the Rockets better.

They also fired most of the assistant coaching staff, including the defensive mastermind Jeff Bzdelik. They are looking to retool the staff while sticking with their main guy in the head coaching spot.

On and off so far, the Rockets and Coach Mike D’Antoni have had talks about working out an extension. Well today, news came out that it looks like the two sides are back on for trying to work out a deal and keep him here for the next few years.

Tilman Fertitta and Daryl Morey visited Mike D'Antoni at his home in West Virginia to rekindle talks. “They asked Mike what he thought and Mike said, ‘Sounds great, but talk to Warren,’" agent Warren LeGarie told ESPN. "Mike’s job is coaching and he leaves the negotiating to me." https://t.co/ubfGH2Y1hO

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) June 8, 2019

While this news makes it look pretty optimistic for a deal to be done, Fox 26’s Mark Berman states that MDA’s agent, Warren LeGarie, says otherwise:

Mike D'Antoni's agent, Warren LeGarie, acknowledges Tilman Fertitta and Daryl Morey have met with Mike in West Virginia, but says a report that the two sides are nearing an agreement on an extension is not accurate: "It's not exactly representing the situation. When they met.." pic.twitter.com/jgEYZEpBRx

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) June 8, 2019

It’s been a rollercoaster ride of negotiations for the Rockets and LeGarie as they look to make a fair deal. Will the extension ever happen?

Thoughts

Personally, it would be nice to see Mike D’Antoni with the Rockets for a few more years. He has had the best three year stretch of any coach in the history of the organization and has won a Coach of the Year award in the time as well.

He certainly has his flaws that we’ve discussed quite a bit, but overall there isn’t really a better option out there right now. With a good defensive assistant by his side, he’s a perfect fit for the Harden-led Rockets.

We’ll have to wait and see if this deal ever gets done. We will certainly be keeping you up to date with the latest news!