Minnesota Timberwolves' Sam Mitchell promoted to interim head coach?

The Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly ready to promote assistant Sam Mitchell to interim head coach as Flip Saunders continues his battle with cancer.

The 52-year-old is expected to be the interim coach for no less than half of the season, and according to Yahoo Sports, a formal announcement on the decision will be made soon.

Saunders was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma back in August and there is reportedly still hope that he can return this season.

Mitchell, who played 10 season with the Timberwolves, was the 2007 NBA Coach of the Year with the Toronto Raptors.