The Phoenix Suns have fired Igor Kokoskov less than a year after hiring him as coach.

The Suns are now targeting Monty Williams as Kokoskov's replacement. 

Williams is set to undergo a second round of interviews with the Lakers, leading to the timing of the Suns' decision to fire Kokoskov.

The Houston Rockets promoted Rafael Stone and Eli Witus, two key members of their front office. 

Stone will become the vice president of basketball operations with Witus being named the assistant general manager.

"We are very fortunate to have Rafael and Eli. They work wonderfully together providing strategic insight and analysis. Collectively, they are on the cutting edge of basketball decision-making and have been key to our ability to put the team in the place we are today. It is important to us organizationally to be flexible and creative as we find ways to add to our roster and these two are at the forefront of that effort. Whether it be acquiring Chris Paul two years ago or signing Clint Capela this summer, we are leaning on them to identify winning players and figure out the best method of fitting them into our team," said Daryl Morey in a statement. 

Dwight Howard is set to opt-in to the second-year of his deal with the Washington Wizards, according to Zach Lowe. Howard will make $5.6 million next season.

Howard played just 9 games last season, averaging 12.8 points and 9.2 rebounds.

The Minnesota Timberwolves plan to keep general manager Scott Layden and interim coach Ryan Saunders in their current roles.

Saunders is expected to sign a three-year deal later this week.

The Timberwolves never contacted any outside candidates for Layden's position. Layden is a holdover from the Tom Thibodeau era. 

The Athletic, however, reported the Wolves will hire a new president of basketball operations who will ultimately decide whether to retain Layden and Saunders.