His assistant coaching job in Dallas might be in doubt but that might not be a bad thing for Del Harris.

According to two sources, Harris is a leading canadiate to become head coach of the Atlanta Hawks.

Hawks GM Billy Knight denied the speculation and said he had "not spoken to a single soul."

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and Harris could not be reached for comment. Howver, based on past requests, it is likely that Cuban would give the Hawks to talk with Harris if they wanted to.

Other canadiates mentioned include former Hawks coach Mike Fratello, Grizzlies assistant Lionel Hollins, and Hawks assistant Larry Smith.

"Harris, 63, has been with the Mavericks for four years as an assistant and compiled a 556-457 record in 13 seasons as head coach of the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers."