Knicks Seek New Coach: Udoka and Finch Out of the Equation
The New York Knicks are looking for a new head coach after the surprising decision to fire Tom Thibodeau last week, despite having led the team to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 25 years.
In their attempt to find the right replacement, the Knicks requested permission to interview Ime Udoka, coach of the Houston Rockets, and Chris Finch, of the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, both requests were denied, according to sources close to the situation.
Both Udoka and Finch have had successful seasons with their teams. The Rockets broke a four-year playoff drought, securing the second seed in the Western Conference. For their part, the Timberwolves reached the conference finals for the second consecutive year.
The Knicks could consider other current coaches, but so far no further requests have been made.
In addition, Jason Kidd, coach of the Dallas Mavericks, has been mentioned as a possible candidate. However, as of Tuesday night, the Knicks had not requested permission to interview him. It is speculated that the Mavericks would also deny the request if it were made.
Jay Wright, who coached three current Knicks starters during his time at Villanova, informed the team that he would not be interested in the position.
