The New York Knicks’ search for a new head coach continues to grow more difficult, as they were recently forced to remove another high-profile candidate from consideration. The Chicago Bulls have reportedly denied the Knicks permission to speak with their current head coach, adding yet another obstacle to New York’s already prolonged hiring process. With top targets becoming increasingly unavailable, the Knicks may be running out of options as they look to fill the vacancy.
Reports emerged that the New York Knicks were denied permission to interview three head coaches, including Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. The list of rejections grew even longer when it was revealed that the Chicago Bulls also refused to allow the Knicks to speak with head coach Billy Donovan. These setbacks further complicate New York’s head coaching search, as several top-tier candidates are now off the table due to organizational blocks from their current teams.
Although the Knicks’ head coaching position is arguably one of the most appealing in the NBA—especially after the team’s impressive run to the Eastern Conference Finals—other franchises clearly aren’t eager to help them fill the vacancy. Multiple teams have already denied New York permission to interview their current head coaches, signaling a lack of cooperation around the league.
Given the mounting obstacles, the Knicks may be starting to question their decision to part ways with veteran coach Tom Thibodeau. After all, Thibodeau led the team to the playoffs in four of his five seasons and helped restore competitiveness to the franchise. As the coaching search drags on with limited viable options, New York could be facing some regret over moving on from a proven leader.