The New York Knicks are inching closer to finalizing their search for a new head coach, a quest that has seen its fair share of twists since the team parted ways with Tom Thibodeau following their exit from the Eastern Conference finals. After two weeks of interviews, the Knicks have reached the second round of discussions and are set to welcome Mike Brown back for another meeting on Tuesday. This indicates that he is emerging as a front-runner for the position.
In addition to Brown, the Knicks are considering second interviews with James Borrego and Micah Nori, both of whom bring unique backgrounds and coaching philosophies to the table. Borrego, who previously helmed the Charlotte Hornets, is known for his offensive acumen and analytics-driven approach—a specialty honed under the tutelage of Gregg Popovich. Meanwhile, Nori, who lacks head coaching experience, has been on the radar of many due to his innovative offensive strategies during his time as an assistant.
Interestingly, the Knicks also reached out to South Carolina’s women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley, who impressed during her interview. However, according to sources, she is not viewed as a finalist for the job at this time.
The Knicks find themselves in a unique position as the only team currently seeking a new head coach in the league, and their efforts have included attempts to speak with several other head coaches who are under contract elsewhere, including Ime Udoka, Jason Kidd, Chris Finch, and Billy Donovan. Each of these requests was rebuffed, with the Mavericks’ GM publicly quelling any rumors of a Kidd-to-New York scenario last week.
As the Knicks navigate through free agency, they are expected to make strategic moves to enhance their roster despite financial constraints. League sources indicate that a signing of veteran scorer Jordan Clarkson is on the horizon, with the player anticipated to clear waivers later this week following a buyout from the Utah Jazz.
In the fast-moving world of the NBA, the Knicks’ coaching search and impending roster decisions will be integral to shaping their competitive prospects in the upcoming season. The next few days could be pivotal as they look to secure a leader who can take this franchise to new heights.
