Daigneault favored for NBA Coach of the Year, but Spoelstra best bet

The NBA gears up for its 78th official season, set to tip off in October. While the spotlight naturally falls on the players, the pivotal role of coaches in shaping and guiding their teams toward success remains paramount.

The prestigious NBA Coach of the Year award stands as a tribute to their diligent efforts and strategic leadership.

As the 2023-24 NBA season approaches, Mark Daigneault, the head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, emerges as the frontrunner in the race for the Coach of the Year accolade.

However, rookie head coach Adrian Griffin of the Milwaukee Bucks follows closely in the odds, creating an intriguing dynamic in the coaching landscape. Notably, Joe Mazzula, Jason Kidd, and Rick Carlisle garner attention as strong contenders for this esteemed coaching honor.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming season, let's delve into the odds, predictions, and the most frequently asked questions surrounding the NBA Coach of the Year award.

Let's take a look at the odds to win the 2024 NBA Coach of the Year odds.


Mark Daigneault	+700	+550	+700
Adrian Griffin	+800	+1100	+800
Erik Spoelstra	+900	+700	+800
Michael Malone	+1000	+1600	+900
Joe Mazzulla	+1000	+1600	+900
Nick Nurse	+1100	+1200	+1000
Frank Vogel	+1400	+1500	+1400
Taylor Jenkins	+1600	+1400	+1400
Jamahl Mosley	+1600	+1800	+2500
Rick Carlisle	+1600	+1600	+1600

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Mark Daigneault

Entering his third season as head coach, Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder faced modest expectations after a couple of subpar campaigns.

However, his expertise honed in the G-League and his focus on player development bore fruit as the Thunder displayed promising signs of progress. The emergence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander underscored the impact of Daigneault's coaching philosophy.

Despite their overall lack of efficiency, the Thunder's high-scoring style defined their performance last season, complemented by a league-leading ability to force turnovers, creating ample opportunities.

"Chet won’t shut up."

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault on Chet Holmgren being the most vocal player during one of their recent scrimmages 😆#ThunderUp pic.twitter.com/FmaemzRFUL

— Thunder Nation (@ThunderNationCP) October 10, 2023

Although their journey led them to the NBA Play-In Tournament, the Thunder's run was cut short in the eighth-seed game.

While the Thunder made some notable acquisitions, including Patty Mills, Davis Bertans, and Vasilije Micic, their prospects for securing a top seed in the Western Conference remain modest.

If the team surpasses expectations and their young talents continue to progress, Daigneault might find himself a top contender for the Coach of the Year award.

However, in the fiercely competitive Western Conference, the Thunder will need to demonstrate significant growth to make a lasting impression.

Having long been a coveted figure among NBA assistant coaches, Adrian Griffin steps into his inaugural head coaching role, returning to where his managerial journey began.

Following successful seasons with the Toronto Raptors, Griffin now takes the reins of the Milwaukee Bucks, a team with high aspirations for a championship run.

Griffin's coaching style is a subject of close observation, with his background as a player and assistant with the Toronto Raptors informing his offensive and defensive strategies.

GM Jon Horst and Coach Adrian Griffin on trading for @Dame_Lillard 🦌 pic.twitter.com/AlyhHz1dbp

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) October 2, 2023

While his Raptors experienced some inconsistencies, they excelled in ball security, leading the NBA in this aspect, and ranked second in turnovers forced.

Griffin is known for emphasizing a strict defensive approach that limited opponents to the fewest field goal attempts per game in the previous season.

The good fortune of inheriting a team led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton has favored Coach Griffin.

Considering the capabilities of Milwaukee's supporting cast, Griffin has a roster capable of contending for a championship.

The crucial test lies in harmonizing the team's components, and the early success of this endeavor will serve as a barometer for his chances in the Coach of the Year race.

Adrian Griffin To win Coach of the Year

+800

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Erik Spoelstra

Despite boasting an impressive coaching record spanning over a decade in the NBA, Erik Spoelstra has yet to be bestowed with the Coach of the Year award. However, this season could mark a turning point.

While the Miami Heat made a noteworthy appearance in the NBA Finals, they are currently regarded as a strong team without the clear status of championship contenders.

Yet, if they manage to defy expectations once again and demonstrate their ability to contend, Spoelstra could find himself in the race for this esteemed accolade.

The team's failure to secure star point guard Damian Lillard might serve as a motivating factor.

With the dynamic duo of Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, along with the return of Tyler Herro, Miami Heat could potentially secure a top-three spot in the comparatively less competitive Eastern Conference.

Such an accomplishment would reflect exceptionally well on Coach Spoelstra, presenting him with a strong chance to clinch the Coach of the Year award.

Erik Spoelstra To win Coach of the Year

+900

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