Pistons news: Will Detroit get permission for first interview?
As we get deeper into the playoffs, the Detroit Pistons' search for a new president of basketball operations has gained steam.
Names have been leaking, including Tim Connelly, Dennis Lindsey and JJ Redick, but so far, none have been officially invited for an interview.
It was one of the first names mentioned who could be up for the first interview according to insider Marc Stein (subscription) who says the Pistons have formally requested an interview with Jon Horst, GM of the Milwaukee Bucks.
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Horst's name is not a surprise, as he was one of the first names in speculation, but it will be interesting to see how the Milwaukee Bucks play this.
Detroit Pistons rumors: Jon Horst could be the first interview
Horst started his career with the Detroit Pistons but has spent over a decade with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he has won a championship along with an Executive of the Year award.
After the Bucks' flameout in the playoffs, there has been widespread speculation about what they are going to do, as they were missing their two best players, so never even got to see the Giannis/Dame duo in action in the playoffs.
They may just want to run it back, make some minor additions and hope for better health next season, in which case, they may not grant the Pistons' request to interview Horst.
There is also the issue of his contract, as Horst signed an undisclosed multi-year extension after the 2022-23 season and is still bound by the terms of the deal.
There was some reported friction between Horst and ownership this season, as he was apparently not on board with the Doc Rivers hire, which may be enough reason for him to jet to browner pastures in Detroit.
Given his contract status, the status of the team and the fact that the Pistons are a division rival, Milwaukee may decide to deny Detroit's request to keep Horst and some continuity for next season.
Most teams grant these requests, so it will be interesting to see how Horst feels about all of this and whether he's even keen to leave Milwaukee.
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