Context:

The New York Knicks are actively searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Tom Thibodeau, who recently led the team to their first Eastern Conference finals since 2000. Jason Kidd, currently the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, is a primary candidate for the position, although the Knicks have not yet requested permission to interview him. Kidd, who previously played his final NBA season with the Knicks, has a diverse coaching background, having led the Nets and the Bucks, and served as an assistant for the Lakers. The Knicks are considering various options, including potential trades, despite having depleted draft resources after acquiring Mikal Bridges. Jason Kidd was previously interviewed by the Knicks in 2020 but was passed over in favor of Thibodeau at that time.

Dive Deeper:

• The New York Knicks have initiated a search for a new head coach following their decision to part ways with Tom Thibodeau, who was instrumental in taking the team to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in over two decades.

• Jason Kidd, the current head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, is being considered as a replacement for Thibodeau, and the Knicks are evaluating the possibility of interviewing him, even though they have not yet made a formal request to the Mavericks.

• Kidd brings a wealth of coaching experience, having previously held head coaching positions with the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks, and serving as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2019 to 2021.

• The Knicks' interest in Kidd is also influenced by his history with the team, having played his final NBA season with the Knicks, which adds a layer of familiarity and potential rapport.

• In addition to exploring coaching changes, the Knicks are considering potential strategic moves, including trades, although they face challenges due to previous depletion of draft picks used to acquire forward Mikal Bridges.

• Kidd's prior interaction with the Knicks includes a coaching interview in 2020, where he was ultimately not selected, as the team chose Thibodeau, who later achieved significant milestones with the franchise.

• The Knicks' coaching decision will be crucial as they aim to build on their recent success and address both current roster needs and long-term franchise goals.