Minnesota Timberwolves: 3 versatile coaches to replace Tom Thibodeau
By TJ Bain
2. Ryan Saunders
When you hear the last name Saunders, fans will obviously immediately think of the late great Flip Saunders and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Ryan Saunders, the son of the former head coach and legend Flip, is an assistant coach for the Timberwolves. Hiring within the organization would be the easiest for owner Glen Taylor and the players, and this one may just be the morale booster needed.
At the age of 32, Ryan Saunders would be one of the youngest head coaches in the league but that isn’t as much of a factor in today’s NBA. Just look at the Boston Celtics with Brad Stevens and the success they are having, even with many experts questioning the move made by the front office, Saunders has been in the league for more than a decade and an assistant for the Wizards and Timberwolves.
A young smart coach that many players on the roster already respect, the move to make Saunders head coach for the rest of the season makes sense. Give the young assistant to show the organization what he can do with this roster. A local native to Minnesota that fan base could really connect with is something the front office has to consider. While in college, Saunders was responsible for player development and social improvements, plus his youth will help him relate to stars like Karl-Anthony Towns and Wiggs.
Since 2014, Ryan Saunders has been an assistant for the Wolves, learning under his father and coach Thibs. Moreover, Saunders has ran many charitable events in Minnesota as well as basketball camps associated with the Wolves organization. Owner Glen Taylor could make a lot of fans excited with this move or another team will give Saunders a chance.
Now we take a look at a veteran head coach who also was president for his former team.
Could this next head coach turn KAT into the next Superman?