Rajon Rondo Eyes NBA Return With Intriguing Twist to His Next Chapter

Rajon Rondo may be done running point on the floor, but don’t mistake that for stepping away from the game. As the 2026 NBA Playoffs roll into the second round, coaching rumors are heating up, and Rondo’s name is popping up. The former Lakers guard is now being discussed for a possible NBA return, but not as a player.

Few ex-players bring Rondo’s basketball IQ or resume. He logged nearly 1,000 regular-season games after entering the league in 2006, reached 10 playoff runs, and won titles with the Boston Celtics in 2008 and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. He’s already spent time around coaching circles, too, helping Doc Rivers on a part-time basis with Milwaukee. That experience now looks more relevant than ever.

The intriguing twist is that Rondo isn’t targeting an assistant role, but believes he’s ready to lead immediately. With the New Orleans Pelicans and Chicago Bulls among teams with vacancies, he’s emerging as a real candidate, especially in New Orleans. A March interview with The Athletic, resurfacing again on April 30, has only added fuel.

“I know I can do it now…I have the discipline, preparation and, obviously, it’s about having the right people around you. I feel like I know who I am, and I know the people I can trust in this business for the most part. I’ve had a lot of great mentors, a lot of people rooting for me. I definitely think I’ll be ready to go.”