Don Nelson
Mavericks Service: 1997-2005
One of the most innovative coaches ever, Don Nelson is credited as the man who helped resurect the Mavericks from a league also-ran to a perennial powerhouse. Primarily known for his offensive mind, it was Nelson who took a chance on Forward Dirk Nowitzki, a 7-footer with an untraditional perimeter game. One of three men to win 1000 games as head coach, he formed arguably the most explosive offensive juggernaut of the '00s with the Dallas Mavericks, taking them to the Western Conference finals. Constantly pushing the game's boundaries, it was as Mavericks coach that he implemented the controversial yet effective "Hack a Shaq" defense, aimed at stopping Shaquille O'neal. Ever the dealsman as a GM, Nelson orchestrated trades which put the Mavericks in place to contend through his era and the next, even without any significant oppurtunities to sign Free Agents. Oft-criticized for his offensively leaning style, Nelson was still the mind behind the Mavericks of the modern era.
330-251 (.575%) as Mavericks coach, winningest ever.