It seems no one is particular outstanding this year, it could be coach Stevens's best chance if we can finish 2nd in the east.
So far I think the competitions are among:
Brad Stevens from Celtics
Mike Budenholzer from Hawks
Quin Snyder from Jazz
Mike D'Antoni from Rockets
Billy Donovan from Thunder
Steve Kerr from Warriors
Gregg Popovic from Spurs
Kerr has won last year, Pop has won many times, and both teams are projected to finish worse than last year, so I guess they are unlikely to win unless there's no one else worthy.
Rockets and Thunder have MVP no.1 and no.2 carrying their teams, so the coaches may get less recognition.
Snyder is probably leading right now because the Jazz is projected to win 52 games, which will be 12 more than last year, in a strong west conference, with pretty much the same roster.
Celtics and Hawks are both projected to finish with the same record as last year. That will be disappointing for both teams, more so for Celtics because the Hawks was close to rebuilding.
So am I right coach Stevens is ranking no.3-4 in the coach of the year competition? and for him to win the C's need to finish 2nd in the east with at least 52 wins.