Pelicans impressed with coaching candidates Darvin Ham, Steve Hetzel

The Pelicans are starting to zero in, though nothing appears close.

According to Jake Fischer of the Stein Line, New Orleans has come away impressed with both Nets assistant Steve Hetzel and Bucks assistant Darvin Ham during the early stages of its coaching search.

Both have made strong impressions on team officials as the Pelicans continue to evaluate options. Interim coach James Borrego is also viewed as a legitimate candidate.

One name that may be slipping off the board is Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney. Fischer notes there is a growing belief Sweeney could be out of reach, with multiple teams, including the Bulls and Magic, also showing interest.

There is also some uncertainty surrounding Jamahl Mosley.

The Pelicans have been linked to the former Magic coach, but Fischer reports it is unclear whether Mosley is eager to jump right back into a head coaching role after his recent dismissal in Orlando.

Either way, it appears the search remains fluid. But Hetzel and Ham appear to have positioned themselves firmly in the mix.