NBA: Ranking all 30 head coaches heading into 2023-24

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Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) /

20. Chris Finch, Minnesota Timberwolves

Chris Finch has led the Minnesota Timberwolves to two straight playoff berths, despite an underwhelming 2022-23 season. He’s good with X’s and O’s and player development. The next step for Finch and the Wolves will be getting out of the first round of the NBA Playoffs.

19. JB Bickerstaff, Cleveland Cavaliers

JB Bickerstaff’s Cleveland Cavaliers have improved in each of the last three seasons. This is after he was a three-time interim head coach. He’s managed to both build a winning culture and find a home in Cleveland.

18. Darvin Ham, Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers went 18-9 after the trade deadline and reached the Western Conference finals. Was that because of the trades Lakers GM Rob Pelinka made, or Dravin Ham’s coaching (or perhaps even a little of both? We will find out during Ham’s second year at the controls.

17. Joe Mazzula, Boston Celtics

Joe Mazzula did a remarkable job given the circumstances this past season with the Boston Celtics. He proved he could handle pressure leading a contender. There were questionable decisions he made during the playoffs, but you can chalk most of that up to inexperience…for now.

16. Billy Donovan, Chicago Bulls

Billy Donovan, the college coach? GREAT. Donovan, the NBA coach? Barely above average. He’s solid with X’s & O’s and his teams can score. His team’s lack of consistency and key injuries have been issues.