Multiple recent reports have indicated the outlook for Lionel Hollins with the Grizzlies isn't good, with Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports suggesting over the weekend that Hollins is likely done in Memphis. But as Hollins repeatedly expresses his desire to return to the team he led to the Western Finals, the Grizzlies and their head coach continue to discuss an extension, according to Ronald Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal (subscription required).
Tillery reports that if the Grizzlies make Hollins an offer, it would likely be for a shorter term, rather than for four years. It's also not clear if Memphis will be able to match the financial commitment that other suitors could be willing to make to Hollins. We heard yesterday that the Nets have requested permission to speak to Hollins, and that the coach's representatives have reached out to the Clippers, who have some interest.
While the Clippers have been fairly stingy on coaching contracts in recent years, their willingness to target bigger names this offseason could signal an inclination to spend more. As for Brooklyn, money is likely no object to owner Mikhail Prokhorov, so if the Nets wanted to make a run at Hollins, they'd be difficult to outbid. It sounds like the Nets may be more focused on Brian Shaw, however, as Mike Wells of the Indianapolis Star reports (via Twitter) that GM Billy King has been doing a lot of background checking on the Pacers assistant.
In spite of Hollins' adamant public stance that he wants to return to the Grizzlies, it would be a surprise if he reached an agreement to remain in Memphis, given the difference in philosophies between Hollins and the club's front office.