Spurs insider paints sobering picture of coaching situation amid Pop uncertainty

The San Antonio Spurs will have a lot of work to do to improve their roster after failing to make the playoffs this season. However, there is a looming question over who will actually coach next year's team.

Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich is still the Spurs coach, but it is unclear whether he will actually return next season. Silver and Black insider Mike Finger discussed the complications this entire situation presents because you don't want to rush Pop, but you need to know his decision ASAP. Obviously, Spurs fans want him back, but if he is unable to coach, the sooner the organization knows, the better.

After all, two terrific coaches just recently hit the market with the Memphis Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets firing Taylor Jenkins and Mike Malone, respectively. Both rank among the best coaches in the NBA, and either would be a terrific fit in San Antonio.

However, San Antonio wouldn't be the only team looking for a new head coach. To be clear, the Spurs would likely be the most attractive spot for either Malone or Jenkins, but Popovich's future with the team could dramatically complicate things this summer.

The uncertainty of Gregg Popovich's future with the San Antonio Spurs could affect their coaching search.

Having Popovich return for what would be his 30th season with the Spurs would obviously be the best outcome, assuming that health permits. If it doesn't, however, San Antonio would have the perfect opportunity to add a long-term replacement that could help them guide the Spurs to their next dynasty.

Aside from Jenkins and Malone, other coaching options could include WNBA coach Becky Hammon and Mike Budenholzer. Hammon, who has two championships guiding the Las Vegas Aces, was a former Spurs assistant coach.

As was Budenholzer, who was a Spurs assistant for 17 seasons before becoming a head coach. Those potential candidates would give them plenty of options.

There is a scenario that would give the Spurs the best of both worlds. Jenkins, Malone, or Budenholzer may sit out next season rather than coach. Meanwhile, Pop could return to coaching next season before potentially retiring or moving into a front office role exclusively. That would allow Popovich to return and retire on his own terms while also allowing him to help pick his successor.

All in all, the Spurs should have several strong coaching candidates if Popovich is unable to return to the team next season. Be that as it may, the Spurs may have to wait a while before figuring out who will coach their team next season.