The New York Knicks sought permission from the Dallas Mavericks to interview head coach Jason Kidd, but the Mavericks declined the request, according to multiple reports.
Following the dismissal of Tom Thibodeau on June 3, the Knicks are in search of a new head coach. Thibodeau led the team to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 25 years and secured playoff appearances in four of his five seasons, including two seasons with over 50 wins.
In addition to Kidd, the Knicks also faced rejections when they attempted to speak with Ime Udoka of Houston and Chris Finch of Minnesota. The search for Thibodeau's successor has been slow, with all three coaches currently under contract and their teams unwilling to grant interviews.
Sources familiar with the situation, who requested anonymity due to the private nature of the discussions, confirmed that the Knicks were denied access to these candidates.
Knicks president Leon Rose previously interviewed both Kidd and Udoka in 2020 before ultimately hiring Thibodeau. Notably, Kidd concluded his Hall of Fame career with the Knicks, contributing to their last playoff appearance in 2013.
Since taking over as head coach of the Mavericks in 2021, Kidd has guided the team to the 2024 NBA Finals. He has not commented publicly on the Knicks' interest or the coaching rumors surrounding him.
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This report includes contributions from various sources within the basketball community.
