On Monday, the Associated Press reported that the Cavaliers are adding Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori to their list of candidates for the head coaching position. Nori is the fifth known candidate in Cleveland’s search, which aims to find a replacement for J.B. Bickerstaff.
Nori, an experienced NBA assistant, stepped in during the playoffs when Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch was limited due to a knee injury. The Cavaliers, who have not commented on their ongoing search, are expanding their pool of candidates following Bickerstaff’s dismissal a week after their postseason loss to Boston. Despite Bickerstaff’s success in improving the team annually and maintaining a strong Eastern Conference presence despite numerous injuries, the Cavs seek a new perspective to take the team further.
Under Bickerstaff, the Cavaliers improved each year and managed to defeat Orlando in a seven-game series in the first round. Nori, who joined Minnesota in 2021, has also had stints with Detroit, Denver, Sacramento, and Toronto. He has been a key advisor to Finch, contributing significantly to staff management. Nori’s Ohio roots and approachable nature have made him popular among players and staff, often lightening the mood with humor during TV interviews.
The Cavaliers have also received permission to interview other candidates, including Golden State assistant Kenny Atkinson, Miami assistant Chris Quinn, New Orleans assistant James Borrego, and New York assistant Johnnie Bryant, as they continue their search for a new head coach.