Ronald Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports:
Lionel Hollins was told he had 11/2 seasons to prove that he could be a quality NBA head coach when he took over the Grizzlies less than a year ago.
Hollins wasted little time convincing the man who made that declaration.
Griz owner Michael Heisley has initiated negotiations toward a contract extension for Hollins, who is working on a 17-month deal he signed Jan. 25, 2009.
Heisley instructed general manager Chris Wallace to contact Hollins’ representative last week for the purpose of determining where both sides stand. However, the Grizzlies’ Chicago-based, billionaire owner made clear that he intends to keep Hollins in charge beyond this season.
