The Orlando Magic requested and were granted permission to talk to Suns assistant coach Marc Iavaroni about their vacant head-coaching position.

The Magic fired coach Brian Hill on Wednesday and are believed to be seeking a replacement who can bring an up-tempo style and nurture the skills of budding big man Dwight Howard.

Iavaroni would fit both qualities. He has served as lead assistant for the past 3 1/2 seasons of his five-year stint with the Suns, who have led the league in scoring since 2004-05. He also has played a major part in the development of center Amar? Stoudemire.

Memphis was the first team to meet with Iavaroni about a head-coaching position this month and might be a more likely fit.