New York Knicks: Five reasons to interview Steve Clifford for head coach

The New York Knicks are searching the open market for a new head coach. As the candidate pool expands, Steve Clifford deserves the benefit of an interview.

As the New York Knicks inch closer to hiring the next head coach, it appears as though the front office is willing to explore the deepest depths of the candidate pool. Thus, it stands to reason that every candidate he fans might be interested in will receive an interview.

Unfortunately, there are a number of individuals who have yet to surface on the radar—including former Charlotte Hornets head coach Steve Clifford.

Clifford, 56, has earned the reputation of one of the most respected coaches in the NBA. He helped elevate a Hornets franchise that had previously been the laughing stock of the Eastern Conference and has nearly 20 years of experience in the Association.

As the Knicks come off of a trip to Europe to interview a coaching candidate and scout a prospect, however, Clifford’s name has yet to surface.

True as that may be, Clifford is a coach whom the Knicks should at least offer an interview. Even if he doesn’t ultimately get the job, he’s the type of candidate who fits what New York is looking for in the next hire along the sidelines.

The question is: What would the benefits be if the New York Knicks actually went through with hiring Steve Clifford as the next head coach?