Knicks Shift Focus in Coaching Search: Interviews with Jenkins and Brown Planned
The New York Knicks are adjusting their coaching strategy after initial attempts to interview high-profile candidates were unsuccessful. With permission requests denied for several current head coaches, the Knicks are set to interview former Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins and former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown next week.
Coaching Candidates on the Horizon
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Taylor Jenkins: Jenkins, aged 40, spent six seasons with the Grizzlies, where he accumulated a record of 250-214. While his tenure included participation in the playoffs, the team only advanced past the first round once before he was dismissed with nine games left in the regular season.
- Mike Brown: Brown, at 55 years old, has a notable coaching history, having previously led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals in the 2006-07 season. He holds a career record of 454-304 across 11 seasons with various teams, including the Cavaliers, Lakers, and Kings. He was let go by Sacramento in December after back-to-back seasons of 45 wins.
A Stalled Search
Team president Leon Rose’s coaching search has hit a snag since the firing of Tom Thibodeau on June 3, shortly after the Knicks were eliminated in the Eastern Conference finals. Reports had indicated that the Knicks sought permission to interview several notable coaches, such as:
- Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks)
- Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets)
- Chris Finch (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- Quin Snyder (Atlanta Hawks)
- Billy Donovan (Chicago Bulls)
However, most permission requests were rebuffed, with the Mavericks reportedly indicating they have no intention of negotiating with the Knicks regarding Kidd.
Future Aspirations
While the Knicks are moving forward with Jenkins and Brown, attention remains on Jason Kidd. There is speculation that the Knicks may circle back to him despite his commitment to the Mavericks, although those discussions appear to be on hold for now.
Current Status of the Search
As the Knicks continue their search, other candidates remain available:
- Mike Malone: Recently fired by the Denver Nuggets, where he achieved an NBA title in 2023.
Interestingly, former Villanova coach Jay Wright has reportedly expressed no interest in taking the reins, despite the presence of former Wildcat stars like Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges on the Knicks roster.
Conclusion
The Knicks’ coaching search is not just a quest for leadership but also a deeper strategy in building a competitive future. Jenkins and Brown represent both fresh and proven leadership possibilities. The basketball community eagerly awaits the Knicks’ decision, as every coaching choice could reshape the team’s trajectory heading into the next season.
For more on coaching strategies in the NBA, check out ESPN’s analysis and keep an eye on upcoming interviews that may impact the Knicks’ future.