Vinny Del Negro discussed the New Orleans Pelicans coaching vacancy with general manager Dell Demps, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

Vinny Del Negro last coached the Clippers. (Getty Images) More

The Pelicans' opening is the most sought-after in the NBA, largely because of superstar Anthony Davis. Former Houston Rockets and New York Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy and Golden State assistant Alvin Gentry are the frontrunners for the job, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

Del Negro emerged as a candidate based upon his successful five-year run as head coach of the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers.

In five seasons he reached the playoffs four times, including the 2011-12 Western Conference semifinals. In his final season with the Clippers, Del Negro led the franchise to its best regular season in history, winning 56 games. His career record is 210-184.

Del Negro was credited with playing a part in the development of several talented young players in both jobs. He worked in the Phoenix Suns' front office, where he ascended from player personnel director to assistant general manager. Del Negro had a 13-year playing career in the NBA.

Since leaving the Clippers in 2013, Del Negro has been an analyst on NBA TV.

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