Scott Skiles resigned as Magic coach.
As Orlando guard Evan Fournier said:
WHAT THE FUCK
— Evan Fournier (@EvanFourmizz) May 12, 2016
Scott Skiles has resigned as head coach of the Orlando Magic, General Manager Rob Hennigan announced today. The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.
“After much thought and careful consideration, I and I alone, have come to the conclusion that I am not the right head coach for this team,” said Skiles. “Therefore, effective immediately, I resign my position as head coach of the Orlando Magic. I realize this type of decision can cause much speculation. The reality though is in the first sentence. It is simple and true. Any other rumors are pure conjecture.”
“I sincerely apologize for any unintended consequences that may adversely affect anyone associated with this decision,” Skiles continued. “The Magic are a world-class organization that employs world-class people. I wish them nothing but great success. I will always be thankful, especially to the DeVos family, for the opportunity.”
“While we understand it was a challenging season, we reluctantly have accepted Scott’s (Skiles) resignation,” said Hennigan. “We appreciate Scott instilling a culture of accountability and certainly wish him and his family well.”
Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel:
Scott Skiles had been unhappy for a few months now.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) May 12, 2016
There was certainly a disconnect between Scott Skiles & GM Rob Hennigan. A few disagreements on personnel & on the mindset of the team.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) May 12, 2016
Hennigan and the front office backed (and still back) Elfrid Payton as the PG of the future. Skiles did not. But that's just 1 issue.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) May 12, 2016
Skiles is notoriously headstrong. He’s the type to suddenly resign rather than compromise.
Elfrid Payton lost his starting job for a few games in March. Before reinserting Payton into the starting lineup, Skiles warned, via Brian Schmitz of the Orlando Sentinel:“It’s imperative that we get away from just playing guys regardless of what they do. That’s a terrible mistake, in my opinion. I don’t think that’s how guys develop properly,” Skiles said.
The Magic also traded Tobias Harris and Channing Frye before the deadline essentially for cap space, taking away two of Skiles’ key players. I wouldn’t be surprised if Skiles – who, like most coaches, is focused on winning as quickly as possible – didn’t like those moves, either.