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Celtics Assistant Lawrence Frank Explores Free Agency, May Land Head-Coaching Gig in Detroit

There's no mystery that Doc Rivers is a part of the Celtics' plans long-term. He wouldn't have it any other way.

But what's less certain is the status of the rest of Rivers' staff, most notably lead assistant Lawrence Frank. The former Nets head coach has spent one season in Boston as Rivers' right-hand man, and it remains to be seen whether he'll find a new opportunity elsewhere.

Frank's predecessor, Tom Thibodeau, jumped ship to Chicago and was named Coach of the Year in his first season as a head coach. Frank is no doubt looking for a similar opportunity.

"Lawrence has interest in coming back," Danny Ainge said. "Lawrence will have the opportunity to coach. But as you know, he's been a top candidate for a lot of teams this year, runner-up in a couple of places."

The "couple of places" are likely Houston, where Frank was interviewed before Kevin McHale won the job, and Golden State, where he looked like the front-runner before Mark Jackson swooped in and stole the gig.

One possibility still remaining for Frank is Detroit, where John Kuester vacated his position after a turbulent season. Frank is alive and well in the running for that job. If he doesn't get it, though, his backup plan may be a return to Boston.

"We want Lawrence back, but he will have options for other teams, too," Ainge said. "He's not under contract, and he'll have an opportunity to explore all his options."