While Mike D'Antoni is still considered the front-runner, the Rockets on Thursday shifted their coaching search focus to meetings with long-time assistants.
Rockets owner Leslie Alexander met with Memphis assistant Jeff Bzdelik, Hornets assistant Stephen Silas and Raptors assistant Rex Kalamian, two individuals with knowledge of the talks said on the condition of anonymity because of the private nature of the talks.
Each have built strong reputations with multiple teams, particularly for their relationship with players. Bzdelik, as expected, interviewed for the head coaching position with the Grizzlies before meeting with the Rockets.
Though the interviews, according to individuals familiar with the talks, were for the Rockets head coaching position, each could fit well should the Rockets consider them as part of a coaching staff.