“@JonRothstein: Sources say Pacers assistant Jim Boylen is a strong candidate to replace Mike Dunlap on Steve Lavin's staff at St. John's....”
Would be a tremendous replacement for Dunlap. Again he was the guy along with Cleveland I was thinking of (Could not think of Boylen's name) who were both fired last year from schools out west and both are highly thought of coaches. In fact the irony is Dunlap was considered a candidate to replace both at Utah and Fresno St.
Also another big reason I was told this has legs is because there is a connection. Boylen and Lavin have a relationship dating back to their time when both were assistants in the Big Ten (Boylen at Mich St from 87-92 and then later under Izzo and Lavin at Purdue from 88-91).
He has the perfect resume' as Dunlap's replacement. Has tons of experience at different levels and is a respected tactician from everything I've read. Sounds like a guy who'd be a great hire. Some recent quotes from an article on which I think speak of what SJU is looking for:
"He’s just a very, very passionate guy about the game of basketball, a preparation fanatic," said Pacers coach Frank Vogel. "He’s been a breath of fresh air, a great addition to our staff — and an extremely funny guy."
Beyond providing comic relief, Boylen is charged with developing the Pacers’ big men, including Roy Hibbert, David West and Tyler Hansbrough. Hibbert, a fourth-year center, is averaging career highs of 13.7 points and 9.7 rebounds. Citing the team’s improved offensive efficiency, Vogel labels Boylen "almost a post-spacing genius."
"Preparation fanatic" and "post-spacing genius" jump out to me as being qualities that are very Dunlapesque. Dunlap was all about spacing, preparation and defense. Seems Boylen is too, and I don't think he is in the role that he relishes right now as a big man coach for the Pacers. My guess we'll be hearing more of his name soon.