The New York Knicks are reportedly chasing multiple head coaches who already have NBA jobs, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
It’s believed the Knicks, run by President Leon Rose, have asked for permission to talk to Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch and Houston Rockets head man Ime Udoka.
The New York Knicks requested permission to speak to Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch and Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka for their head coaching job, but were denied on both, sources tell ESPN. Knicks could request permission for other current head coaches too.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 11, 2025
Both the Timberwolves and Rockets rebuffed the approaches, however, according to Charania, the Knicks might not be done targeting employed coaches.
This follows reports by Marc Stein that New York is also interested in Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. Although, Charania reports that if approached, the Mavericks would reject said advances.
New York parted ways with former head coach Tom Thibodeau, days after the Knicks were ousted form the Eastern Conference Finals by the Indiana Pacers in six games. Thibodeau held the role for five years, leading the franchise to its first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 26 years.