The Memphis Grizzlies are poised to remove the "interim" tag from general manager Chris Wallace while conducting a search to hire a "GM-in-waiting" who will train under Wallace, multiple sources told ESPN.com.

Wallace, who has been with the Grizzlies since 2007, returned to his role as head of the Grizzlies' basketball operations last month when CEO Jason Levien surprisingly parted ways with the team. The team hasn't formalized his role with a new contract as yet but has begun the process of interviewing candidates to become his right-hand assistant.

The Grizzlies have cast a wide net in looking for a new hire, targeting some young executives on other teams. Memphis asked for permission to speak with Oklahoma City Thunder assistant GM Michael Winger, sources said, but Winger declined the interview because he is happy with the Thunder.

Hiring a so-called GM-to-be has been used several times in the past by NBA teams. One of the notable examples was when the Houston Rockets hired Daryl Morey as their GM-in-waiting in 2006 and he later succeed Carroll Dawson.

In the wake of Levien's departure, the Grizzlies signed coach Dave Joerger to a contract extension last month.