Knicks Denied Permission to Interview Rockets, Timberwolves Coaches

Following the dismissal of coach Tom Thibodeau after the Knicks' Eastern Conference Finals loss, New York has faced significant challenges in its search for a new head coach. The Knicks sought permission to interview Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets and Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves, but both teams denied their requests, signaling a reluctance to lose successful coaches. Udoka led the Rockets to improved records and a playoff berth, while Finch guided the Timberwolves to consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances. Meanwhile, Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd is also a potential candidate, but the Mavericks expect him to remain and have not yet been formally approached by the Knicks. With Udoka and Finch off the table and Kidd likely unavailable, the Knicks may need to consider less expected options to fill the coaching vacancy. This situation highlights the difficulties the Knicks face despite their recent strong season and investments in star players.