Rumor mill: Juwan Howard's name mentioned as potential candidate for NBA jobs

It’s that time of year again.

With coaching changes coming in the NBA, Juwan Howard is a name that has already been mentioned as a potential candidate for multiple jobs. Most notably, the Michigan head coach is rumored to be a candidate for vacancies with the Portland Trailblazers and Boston Celtics.

Howard just completed his second season as the head coach at Michigan. He led the Wolverines to a B1G regular season title, a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and a trip to the Elite Eight.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that Howard could be considered for the job. It’s pure speculation at this point that Howard would be a candidate for the job in Boston.

Among candidates expected to be considered for the Blazers opening, sources tell ESPN: Clippers assistant Chauncey Billups, Jeff Van Gundy, Nets assistant Mike D’Antoni, and Michigan’s Juwan Howard.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 5, 2021

Juwan Howard would be a fascinating fit as Celtics head coach.

NBA champion as a player, AP Coach of the Year in 2021 with Michigan, years of experience as an assistant coach in Miami, and has the cachet to garner respect from the players.

— Austin Krell (@NBAKrell) June 3, 2021

Both jobs became available after postseason exits for Portland and Boston. Terry Stotts is out as the leader of the Trailblazers and Brad Stevens is shifting from head coach of the Celtics to the president of basketball operations.

Howard was considered a candidate for NBA jobs last year as well, but denied having any interest in leaving Ann Arbor.