Image Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Taylor Jenkins Fired: 3 Potential Destinations for the Former Grizzlies Coach

Let's take a look at three potential teams that could be eager to sign Jenkins.

Image Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

The Memphis Grizzlies left the NBA fraternity stunned when they announced the firing of their head coach Taylor Jenkins on Friday, March 28. With the playoffs season approaching and only nine regular season games remaining, the side named Tuomas Iisalo as their interim coach.

The Grizzlies hired Jenkins in 2019, and since then, he has led the team to three playoff appearances, two 50-win seasons, and a 44-29 record this season.

Taylor Jenkins was called into the Grizzlies office this morning and was fired in person, sources tell ESPN. Stunning dismissal. Jenkins now becomes one of the top head coaching candidates for the upcoming cycle. He had a .539 winning percentage as Grizzlies coach. https://t.co/fKRG7MNY58
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 28, 2025

With the Grizzlies now parting ways with their winningest coach, several other franchises will likely pursue him, given his strong resume. Here are three potential teams that could be eager to sign Jenkins.

San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs will be keen on signing Jenkins if their head coach Gregg Popovich doesn’t return next season. Popovich suffered a mild stroke after coaching the first five games with the franchise in the current season. The Spurs have left the decision on Popovich to decide if he wants to return the next season or not. If he doesn’t, the Spurs would want to pursue someone with solid experience.

Also Read: The Chicago Bulls Have Caught Fire As of Late: Can the Bulls Keep the Winning Streak Going?

However, if Jenkins becomes the next Spurs coach, he would have big shoes to fill in. Popovich is regarded as one of the greatest coaches in the history of the league. He led the side to five NBA titles, and hence, expectations will be high from him.

Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets could be another team looking to hire Taylor Jenkins as their new coach. Over the years, the Hornets have struggled with poor form and consistent bottom finishes. The team hired former Boston Celtics assistant Charles Lee as their head coach for the 2024-25 season. Given the Celtics’ success as champions last season, Lee was expected to work his magic and help turn the Hornets’ fortunes around this year.

However, even Lee failed to secure to turn the tables around and the team is currently hanging at the 14th spot in the east with an 18-55 tally. With the Hornets missing the playoff qualification for the ninth season straight, the franchise would want to make significant changes, including the head coach position and hire a reliable name.

Also Read: NBA Announces Salary Cap Changes for Next Season

Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings fired their former head coach Mike Brown halfway through his third season in December 2024. Since then, the team has been led by Doug Christie, their 13th coach in 19 years. The team is constantly looking for a new face in the leadership role and hence, could possibly eye for Jenkins. The Kings are in the ninth spot in the West with a 36-37 record.

Jenkins seems to be a perfect name for them who is consistent with his 206-185 career record as a head coach. Not only this, but he is also respected around the league. While Christie has a positive 23-19 record with the Kings, a missed playoff berth could force the franchise to turn to Jenkins.

Charlotte Hornets

Memphis Grizzlies

Sacramento Kings

San Antonio Spurs

Taylor Jenkins

Garima Ranawat

Garima is a sports writer with around two years of experience in Indian sports and a newfound interest in the NBA. Inspired by the leadership of cricketing legend MS Dhoni, she wishes to bring in newer perspectives to the NBA fanatics with her writing.