Breaking Down the Rumored New York Knicks Coaching Candidates

The Knicks need a new head coach. Again. Here are four high-profile candidates and why they should, or shouldn't, take the job if offered.

Shaw Mark Jackson Jeff Van Gundy 2014 NBA Finals
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MIAMI, FL - JUNE 10: The NBA TV crew, Shaquille O'Neal, Mark Jackson, and Jeff Van Gundy talk before Game Three of the 2014 NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the Miami Heat on June 10, 2014 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

Shaw Mark Jackson Jeff Van Gundy 2014 NBA Finals

Death, taxes, and the Knicks need a new head coach.

David Fizdale was thrown under the bus for the Knicks abysmal start to the season which means at some point in the very near future New York will name its 14th head coach (we’re counting all the interims) over the last 19 years. Yuck.

The turnover rate is astounding and one reason among many why the Knicks have won precisely one playoff series this millennium. As usual, big names are rumored to be candidates for a job that sounds sexy but really is a hot mess when looking past the glitz and glamour of Madison Square Garden.

For starters, Knicks ownership has to decide the fate of president Steve Mills, who is rumored to be on the hot seat. Much of the ineptitude of the Knicks falls at the feet of Mills since he returned to MSG to call the shots in 2013 and the argument that he doesn't deserve to hire another coach is easy to make. 

Reportedly, there are three high-profile candidates the Knicks are widely believed to have their eye on while a former player and future Hall of Famer has recently been identified as another potential target. Does anyone have the inside track? Who stands to gain the most from taking the Knicks job? And why should any of them actually take it if it was offered? We laid it out. 

Jeff Van Gundy

Jeff Van Gundy ESPN 2016

Mark Jackson

Mark Jackson Mark Jones ESPN 2018

Tom Thibodeau

Tom Thibodeau Wolves Pelicans 2018

Jason Kidd

jason kidd lakers 2019

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