Knicks, Mavericks Jason Kidd Reportedly Share Mutual Coaching Interest

The New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd have reportedly expressed mutual interest in Kidd potentially taking the Knicks' vacant head coaching position following Tom Thibodeau's departure. While the Knicks have yet to formally request permission to interview Kidd, it is expected the Mavericks may deny this request or attempt to dissuade Kidd from leaving, given he has two years remaining on his contract after signing an extension in 2024. ESPN's Brian Windhorst outlined three options for Dallas: refuse to trade Kidd, try to reduce his interest through incentives, or negotiate a trade, recalling Kidd's previous coaching trade from Brooklyn to Milwaukee. Kidd, who led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season, has a personal connection to New York, having played for the Knicks in the 2012-13 season. Other candidates discussed by the Knicks include Houston's Ime Udoka, though an interview request there is also expected to be denied, and former Villanova coach Jay Wright, who declined interest. The coaching search remains active, with attention on how seriously the Knicks pursue Kidd and Dallas's response to any offers.