Report: Silas, D'Antoni leading candidates to coach Rockets

Stephen Silas and Mike D'Antoni have reportedly emerged as the leading candidates for the Houston Rockets head coaching job, sources tell Calvin Watkins of ESPN.

It was reported Thursday that the Rockets were preparing a formal offer for D'Antoni, who landed a second interview earlier this week.

Watkins notes Silas left team officials very impressed following his two interviews, with the latest meeting involving Rockets owner Leslie Alexander. It is believed Houston wants someone with head coaching experience, though they could pair Silas with an experienced lead assistant.

The 42-year-old Silas - the son of former NBA player and coach Paul Silas - has served as an assistant with the Charlotte Hornets since 2010.

D'Antoni was as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia 76ers this year, but spent 12 seasons as an NBA head coach, including stints with the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers. He owns a 455-426 record and was the NBA Coach of the Year in 2005.

The Rockets fired head coach Kevin McHale in November following a 4-7 start and named J. B. Bickerstaff interim coach for the remainder of the season.