Pistons Fire Head Coach Monty Williams After Disastrous Season, Eat Remaining $67.5 Million

Photo: Instagram/Monty Williams

The Detroit Pistons have fired head coach Monty Williams after just one season. The team finished with a dismal 14-68 record, the worst in their history, and endured a historic 28-game losing streak. This season saw questionable rotation decisions and minimal player development.

Just a year ago, Pistons owner Tom Gores gave Williams the richest coaching contract in NBA history, worth $67.5 million over six years. Despite this hefty contract, Gores made the call to let Williams go on Tuesday night. The decision was first reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and later confirmed by the Pistons.

Gores expressed his gratitude for Williams' efforts but emphasized the need for a new direction. "Decisions like these are difficult to make, and I want to thank Monty for his hard work and dedication," Gores said. "Coaching has many dynamic challenges that emerge during a season and Monty always handled those with grace. However, after reviewing our performance carefully and assessing our current position as an organization, we will chart a new course moving forward."

Photo: Instagram/Monty Williams

Williams initially turned down the Pistons last summer to spend time with his wife, Lisa, who had been diagnosed with cancer. However, after her treatment showed positive signs and Gores' persistence, Williams accepted the job.

The Pistons struggled again this season, finishing with the NBA's worst record for the second year in a row. The young team showed little development, leading to changes in the front office with Troy Weaver out and Trajan Langdon in. However, firing Williams was a significant decision due to the money involved.

Potential candidates for the head coaching position include James Borrego, Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Knicks assistant Johnny Bryant, and Mavericks assistant Sean Sweeney. Whoever takes the job will need to focus on developing young talents like Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, Jaden Ivey, and the Pistons' upcoming No. 5 draft pick.

Read Next: Shohei Ohtani Breaks Dodger Stadium Record With Huge Home Run

Source: Yahoo Sports 

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