NBA Coach of the Year rankings, odds: Why there's a clear favorite in season of surprises
CBS Sports
by
John Gonzalez
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NBA's 2026 Coach of the Year race has become a thrilling competition, filled with surprises and standout performances. Coaches like Charles Lee of the Charlotte Hornets and Jordan Ott of the Phoenix Suns have emerged as strong contenders, leading their teams to unexpected success despite significant challenges.
Charles Lee has transformed the struggling Charlotte Hornets into a playoff contender, securing the No. 10 seed in the Eastern Conference. Under his guidance, the team boasts an impressive 14-3 record since January and features standout performances from players like Kon Knueppel, who is on track for a historic rookie season. Lee's ability to integrate young talent and manage star player LaMelo Ball has been crucial to Charlotte's turnaround.
Meanwhile, Jordan Ott has revitalized the Phoenix Suns after a rocky start. Despite losing key players, Ott has guided Phoenix to seventh place in the Western Conference. The team's resilience and competitive spirit have been central to their success, showcasing Ott's leadership and adaptability.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/2/2026