Knicks Face Widespread Rejection in NBA Coaching Search

The New York Knicks are conducting an unusually challenging and public head coaching search following the firing of Tom Thibodeau after their Eastern Conference Finals appearance. The team sought permission to interview five current NBA head coaches—Jason Kidd, Chris Finch, Ime Udoka, Billy Donovan, and Quin Snyder—but all teams firmly declined, often responding with blunt refusals and even profanity, with some owners personally intervening to block discussions. Knicks insiders suggest the team anticipated some pushback and are using this process as an educational tool to identify viable candidates. With active coaches unwilling to engage, the Knicks have narrowed their focus to interviewing available coaches such as Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins. Despite the difficulties and public rejections, the Knicks remain deliberate in their approach, aiming to find the right fit rather than rushing into a decision. This search underscores the Knicks' precarious standing among NBA peers despite recent on-court success.