Sources: Magic pushing to sign Scott Skiles as coach

The Orlando Magic have entered into contract discussions with former Magic fan favorite Scott Skiles and expect to soon complete his hiring as the team's next coach, according to league sources.

Sources told ESPN.com that the Magic, undaunted by Skiles' interview this week with the New Orleans Pelicans, continue to push for a deal with Skiles and are trying to complete a multiyear deal with the former Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks coach who famously once had a 30-assist game when he was playing in Orlando's backcourt.

One source said the Magic hope to have a deal struck with Skiles as soon as Friday.

Skiles' candidacy has always had the strong backing of Magic ownership and team CEO Alex Martins, from the moment Jacque Vaughn was dismissed in February. But the Pelicans emerged as a wild card in Orlando's pursuit of Skiles when they made him a prime target in their search alongside Alvin Gentry and Jeff Van Gundy at the behest of general manager Dell Demps, who played under Skiles when he coached in Greece.