Rockets in final stages of head-coach talks with Dallas Mavericks assistant Stephen Silas

HOUSTON – The Houston Rockets are in the final stages of their search for a new head coach.

KPRC 2 Sports has confirmed an ESPN report that team officials are in advanced talks with Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Stephen Silas. The deal will be worked out and announced soon.

Silas will take over for Mike D’Antoni who decided to leave the organization when his contract expired at the end of the season.

Silas, 46, was on the Rockets' shortlist, which included former Rockets head coach Jeff Van Gundy and longtime Rockets coach and former player John Lucas.

Silas is highly respected in NBA circles after serving in assistant roles for 20 years, including his most recent record-setting run offensively in Dallas under Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle.