The Detroit Pistons appear ready to shoulder a hefty bill for Monty Williams’ absence, whether he opts for a break or to helm another team.
What’s the tab? Try a whopping $65 million on for size.
Having signed on Trajan Langdon as their new basketball operations director on May 31, the Pistons have now parted ways with Williams after a single season — despite him being owed $65 million over the next five years.
It appears that the choice to separate from Williams was influenced by the team’s owner Gores rather than solely Langdon’s call, as suggested by a report by ESPN.
“These decisions are never easy, and I’m grateful to Monty for his commitment and contributions,” Gores expressed in a release from the organization. “Monty approached the inevitable ups and downs of the coaching world with dignity. After careful evaluation of our team’s recent performance and our direction, we believe it’s time to go in a different direction moving ahead.”
“Monty commands my utmost respect both as a leader and individual, and I’m confident he’ll find success in the next chapter of his career. I extend my best wishes to him and his loved ones.”
The Pistons are promptly initiating their hunt for a new coach.
Williams, aged 52, endured a tough season with the Pistons, notching a regrettable league-low 14-68 record and establishing a dubious NBA record with 28 back-to-back defeats. Challenges included a very youthful squad and various player injuries.
Prior to his Detroit stint, Williams took the coaching reins for the New Orleans Hornets and the Phoenix Suns, with an overall 381-404 career coaching tally. Notably, he steered the Suns to the NBA Finals during the 2020-21 season, only to fall to the Milwaukee Bucks.
“Our focus is unwavering in its aim to construct a team that can contend for titles here in Detroit,” Gores continued. “Our search for a head coach who will guide our promising young core will be thorough and prompt. We are committed to creating a top-tier front office to steer us towards long-term excellence.”
