The New York Knicks find themselves back at square one in their coaching search after hitting roadblocks with their top targets.
The franchise initially set their sights on Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd and Houston Rockets’ Ime Udoka, but both organizations quickly shut down any interview requests.
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania provided the latest update on the team’s pivot during a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
“I expect them to look today, tomorrow, and over the weekend into some former head coaches, maybe even assistant coaches at the NBA level right now,” Charania said.
“I expect them to look today, tomorrow, and over the weekend into some former head coaches, maybe even assistant coaches at the NBA level right now.”@ShamsCharania tells @PatMcAfeeShow what he expects the Knicks to do in their head coaching search. pic.twitter.com/BzuFIjhNkl
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 13, 2025
The Knicks appear to be taking a different approach now, turning their attention toward experienced coaches who are currently available.
Names like Mike Brown, Taylor Jenkins, and Michael Malone have emerged as potential candidates in this new phase of their search.
Brown has been linked to various openings throughout the coaching carousel, bringing extensive NBA experience from his lengthy career.
Jenkins presents a more intriguing option after his work transforming the Memphis Grizzlies’ young roster, despite his tenure ending unexpectedly this past season.
Malone represents another veteran presence with proven success at the highest level.
Charania noted that the Knicks have the luxury of time in their search process.
With no other head coaching positions currently open across the league, New York can conduct thorough evaluations without competing against other franchises for candidates.
The organization appears committed to comprehensive due diligence this time around.
While most coaching searches typically unfold behind closed doors, the Knicks’ process has played out publicly, creating additional scrutiny around every potential move.
They can now explore more options and interview candidates who weren’t available during busier hiring times.
