** Knicks Eye Mavericks’ Jason Kidd as Coaching Candidate

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The New York Knicks are reportedly considering a familiar face as they search for a new head coach, with sources indicating that they have approached the Dallas Mavericks to discuss Jason Kidd. However, the Mavericks have thus far declined permission for the Knicks to conduct an interview with their current head coach, according to insights from K.C. Johnson of The Chicago Sports Network. , according to hoopswire.com

This development comes on the heels of the Knicks parting ways with Tom Thibodeau, despite a noteworthy season that saw them reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in over two decades. The Knicks were ultimately bested by the Indiana Pacers in a challenging six-game series. Thibodeau’s departure marks a significant shift for the franchise, which had high hopes after a promising playoff run.

In addition to Kidd, the Knicks have sought permission to speak with several other prominent coaches, including Quin Snyder of the Atlanta Hawks, Ime Udoka from the Houston Rockets, Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls. Unfortunately for the Knicks, all these requests have been met with refusals, leaving them in a precarious position as they look to fill their coaching vacancy.

Thibodeau, who was brought on board in 2020, enjoyed a solid run with the Knicks, posting a regular-season record of 226 wins against 174 losses, along with a postseason record of 24 wins and 23 losses. His accolades included being named the NBA Coach of the Year in 2021. Nevertheless, the organization believes a change is necessary to build on their recent playoff success and establish a more competitive culture moving forward.

On the other side, Jason Kidd, who has a coaching resume of 362 wins and 339 losses in the regular season, along with a playoff record of 31 wins and 33 losses, has made a significant impact with the Mavericks. His tenure in Dallas has seen him develop a team that is poised for the future, especially as they prepare for the upcoming NBA Draft, where they hold the first overall selection.

As reported by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps, there are murmurs within the league that both Kidd’s situation in Dallas and Donovan’s role with the Bulls could undergo changes in the near future. This speculation adds an intriguing layer to the Knicks’ pursuit of Kidd, as the dynamics of coaching roles continue to shift across the league.

With the Knicks in search of a leader who can inspire and elevate their roster, Kidd’s familiarity with the New York market and his previous playing career with the team could make him a compelling option, should the Mavericks reconsider their stance.

As the offseason progresses, the Knicks will undoubtedly continue their pursuit of a head coach who can help steer the team toward a more promising future, while Kidd’s future remains an open question amid the evolving coaching landscape of the NBA.

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