As the New York Knicks look to find a replacement for Tom Thibodeau this offseason, they are reportedly considering reconnecting Jalen Brunson with a familiar face.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Knicks have their sights set on Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd and are planning to seek permission from Dallas to discuss the head coaching position with him.
“In the coming days, the New York Knicks are expected to formally request permission to engage with Jason Kidd of the Dallas Mavericks about their open coaching spot,” Stein reported. “Following the recent dismissal of Tom Thibodeau, New York is keen on bringing Kidd on board, a move that is being taken very seriously by league insiders,” he added.
While a definite list of candidates to replace Thibodeau has not been finalized, sources within the coaching community believe Kidd, who played a pivotal role in the development of Knicks star guard Jalen Brunson during their time together in Dallas for the 2021-22 season, is a top contender for the role.
Kidd, who ended his illustrious 19-year NBA playing career with the Knicks in 2013, had previously interviewed for the Knicks’ head coaching job before the team hired Thibodeau. During his interview, Kidd reportedly made a strong impression on the Knicks’ leadership.
Kidd’s coaching of Brunson during the 2021-22 season is credited with aiding the guard’s standout performance, which eventually led to his lucrative signing with the Knicks in free agency the following summer. Brunson and Kidd reportedly maintain a positive relationship, with Brunson expressing that his connection with Kidd is “very unique” after joining New York.
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