NBA Rumors: 3 Magic Coaching Candidates Who Would Work with Dwight Howard

The Orlando Magic's offseason has focused almost exclusively on Dwight Howard's future, but those priorities may be set to take a backseat for now.

According to RealGM's Jarrod N. Rudolph, new general manager Rob Hennigan will focus on the club's need for a coach at the moment:

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Sources: Orlando Magic have informed Dwight Howard that they are suspending trade talks in favor of finding next head coach.

— Jarrod N Rudolph (@JRudolphSports) July 11, 2012"

Of course, it may not be long before all those trade discussions resume. It's not as if there's been any kind of meaningful reconciliation between Howard and the club for whom he's played eight seasons.

But, regardless of Howard's status, the Magic will still need a coach.

Here are three Orlando has its eye on. If Dwight improbably stays on board, they'd all make a pretty good fit.

Michael Curry

His head coaching experience with the Detroit Pistons is a plus, and Curry has all the makings of a player-friendly coach who wouldn't get on Howard's nerves. A former defensive specialist on the court, Curry would probably have some credibility in Howard's eyes.

According to the Orlando Sentinel's Josh Robbins, the 43-year-old Curry is now one of six options the Magic are considering. 

Besides his work for the Pistons, Curry also served as an assistant with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Brian Shaw

Former Los Angeles Laker Brian Shaw is also among the Magic's finalists for the position. He might already be the Lakers' head coach had the organization not opted for Mike Brown instead. After serving as an assistant for the team from 2004 to 2011, he appeared the natural choice to take over.

Instead, he came to the Indiana Pacers as an associate head coach under Frank Vogel.

His success in both capacities speaks volumes about what he could do for the Magic. He also has a history with the team after playing for them from 1994-97. 

Shaw in many ways offers the best of both worlds. He understands the coaching side of the game given his substantial experience on the bench. He also understands what it's like to be a player, though.

Michael Malone

After spending five years as an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers during LeBron James' tenure, this man knows a thing or two about big egos. If there's any chance D12 is staying in Orlando, the guy managing the bench will almost certainly need that kind of background.

Malone served as an assistant with the Golden State Warriors this season, and also spent time with the New Orleans Hornets. It's just about the right time for him to make his foray into the head coaching ranks.