The Philadlephia 76ers privately wish that Doug Collins decides not to return as coach for the final year of his contract next season, according to multiple league sources.
The 76ers have no plans to extend Collins' contract.
Due to his desire to win, Collins has been demanding with people above him in the 76ers' organization and players on the roster. Some members of the organization prefer a coach who is more pliable in his dealings with management and players.
Collins, who will turn 62 this summer, would have to leave $4.5 million on the table if he decided to quit.
"I think he's gone at the end of the year. He'll be moving on," said one NBA source with intimate knowledge of the situation. "He'll decide to leave, and they won't be upset about it. They would like to see it work out that he decides to move on."
After a run to the second round in last year's playoffs, the 76ers have slipped badly this season, currently ninth in the Eastern Conference and 16 games under .500.