Knicks Rumors: Jason Kidd emerges as frontrunner for head coach

Could Jason Kidd be the next head coach of the New York Knicks?

After months of Tom Thibodeau being reported as the clear frontrunner for the New York Knicks head coaching position, it appears there might be a sudden twist in the hiring process with Jason Kidd emerging as a lead candidate after contract negotiations with Thibodeau have stalled, per the New York Daily News.

It is worth mentioning that multiple reports have recently indicated that the Knicks have not entered into contract negotiations with any of their candidates. SNY reported the team is expected to continue interviewing candidates into next week before making a final decision.

Kidd reportedly “wowed” the Knicks brass during his second interview, per the New York Post. He has been considered one of the threats to Thibodeau, along with former Brooklyn Nets coach Kenny Atkinson.

Jason Kidd is viewed by Knicks as conduit to free agents

Kidd is apparently viewed by the Knicks as a “conduit to attracting free agents,” per the New York Daily News. Newsday has linked the team’s interest in Kidd to the possibility of signing superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Daily News report also notes that there are people in the organization who are skeptical of his coaching performances in Brooklyn and Milwuakee.

The Hall-of-Fame point guard is known for having a great relationship with Antetokounmpo; however, Kidd also carries a reputation as a difficult coach to get along with, often fighting with his own staff.

Kidd finished 139-152 over four seasons in Milwaukee, after lasting only one season in Brooklyn (where he went 44-38) before jumping ship in a move to grab more power.

The New York Daily News reports that James Dolan has been unwilling to agree to Thibodeau’s contract requests, perhaps opening the door for a dark-horse candidate like Kidd. The Knicks have interviewed 11 candidates for their head coaching position, including interim coach Mike Miller.

It is expected that the front office will want to hire specific assistants, no matter who gets the head coaching position, which could be a caveat that separates the candidates who are more willing to have the organization dictate their staff.