DENIED! 5 NBA coaches the Knicks were barred from pursuing
The franchise that got close to the 2025 NBA Finals promptly fired head coach Tom Thibodeau after the Knicks' season ended, with buzz over some possible names they could interview and replace Thibs with.
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Thing is, thus far they've reportedly picked out some names that are under contract with other teams. I guess that was Plan A? To see if they could trade for a big name? It's led to some awkwardness (just ask Charles Barkley)
So now it's on to Plan B. Because all of these names, per reports, have been denied to the Knicks given their current status.
Let's run down those names as we wait to see who they gravitate towards now:
Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks
The rumblings were there was some "mutual" interest but ultimately the Dallas Mavericks said "NOPE!"
Ime Udoka, Houston Rockets
I guess the Knicks were just shooting for the best possible names, because I don't see there being a way Udoka would leave the emerging Rockets.
Chris Finch, Minnesota Timberwolves
Same here. Not sure if a team that's a contender would be OK with another contender grabbing their head coach, compensation or not.
Quin Snyder, Atlanta Hawks
At least you tried.
Billy Donovan, Chicago Bulls
Maybe this one was seen as more attainable? I dunno.
Hey Knicks: maybe consult our list of seven possible Knicks coaching candidates?
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Knicks head coach rumors: 5 coaches New York was barred from pursuing
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