The Toronto Raptors may have found their new head coach in former Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic, but that doesn’t mean their coaching staff is finalized just yet. Rakajovic, who gained a reputation as someone who can develop talent, likely needs to add a few coaches who understand how to mold young players into contributors.
The success of Nick Nurse, and his subsequent departure meant that many of his top assistants (Chris Finch, Adrian Griffin) were hired away by other teams trying to replicate his magic. Some coaches, like Rico Hines, followed Nurse to Philadelphia. Who would come in to replace them?
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, an old friend and a new face are two of the big names that will job Rajakovic in Toronto. Jama Mahlalela, who spent almost a decade in various coaching roles with the Raptors, and Washington Wizards assistant Pat Delany have agreed to join this new-look staff in Toronto.
The Toronto Raptors are hiring Wizards assistant Pat Delany and Warriors assistant Jama Mahlalela as top assistant coaches on Darko Rajakovic’s new staff, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 15, 2023
Jama Mahlalela, Pat Delany hired by Toronto Raptors.
Delany spent time as the head coach of the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the G League before moving to the professional level all across the Southeast division. After a brief stint in Charlotte and some solid years with the Orlando Magic, Delany moved to the Washington Wizards prior to his excursion up north.
Mahlalela had been with the Raptors since 2006 and on the bench since 2013 as an assistant coach. After being reassigned to Raptors 905 of the G League, Mahlalela turned them into an absolute juggernaut, with Defensive Player of the Year Chris Boucher standing out as his best developmental success.
After briefly jumping back to the NBA level during the Tampa sabbatical, Mahlalela took a job as an assistant and director of player development with Golden State. With one NBA Finals championship under his belt already, it looks like Mahlalela had an impact on the culture over there.
“You persevere through life. You work through each moment as it comes to you. You do it with a positive approach and I’ve been really thankful for where I am now.” — Assistant Coach, Jama Mahlalela@ModeloUSA || Fighting Spirit pic.twitter.com/WG8e2FWA2O
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 7, 2023
Bringing in a new coaching staff and way of thinking could be tough for the Raptors, but Mahlalela coming back gives many of the veterans on this team a respected voice and proven winner they can connect with. This is a move that won’t guarantee a title, but can install some familiarity.