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[New York Knicks]

Knicks’ coaching search: Every candidate linked to New York

Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images

Four days into the search, we compiled all sources linking candidates to the Knicks.

Normally, when a team’s season ends, there’s a bit of a lull until the NBA draft starts the offseason. That can feel like forever if you miss the playoffs, but the later your season ends, the quicker the lull is.

Unless you’re a Knicks fan in 2025. The dismissal of Tom Thibodeau as the team’s head coach has caused a media frenzy for the past four days that has even overshadowed the beginning of the NBA Finals (until yet another crazy Indiana comeback, we tried to warn them). While most of the media attention has been negative towards the Knicks for firing him (as was the 600-voter P&T poll we ran), there have also been some rumors on who will become the 32nd head coach in Knicks history.

All sorts of candidates have been floated, some more realistic than others. Let’s try to piece together who’s getting the most buzz before we start hearing about interviews.

1. Not Happening, College Edition​

Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images

Jay Wright (Former Villanova Head Coach)

As much as it would be fun to see the Hall of Fame coach reunite with the Nova Knicks, the 63-year-old retired from coaching in 2022, seemingly not wanting to deal with the then-burgeoning NIL explosion that’ll make it a significant chore to recruit and retain talent. A coach with that mentality in college isn’t jumping to the pros. CBS Sports analyst Seth Davis, who works with Wright in his new gig, said it’s not happening. Everyone else who’s actually weighed in agrees.

(Update: Jon Rothstein makes it official.)

Sources: Jay Wright is not a candidate for the New York Knicks head coaching vacancy.

Wright and Leon Rose regularly speak and Rose is aware that Wright is happily retired from coaching.

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) June 7, 2025​

Dan Hurley (UConn Head Coach)

Hurley made sense. He was very close to leaving the back-to-back national champions for the Lakers job last year, but elected to stay in Storrs. Like Wright, it was believed the Knicks were the team that could lure him into the pros. Unfortunately for fans of his, he stated he’s not going through this again. Maybe if the Lakers saga didn’t happen last year, he’d consider it.

Rick Pitino (St. John’s Head Coach)

Another Big East coach, another Knicks fan. Pitino is one of three former Knicks coaches linked (1987-89) and last coached in the NBA for the Boston Celtics in 2001. He’s 72 and doesn’t want to deal with the expectations while building something special with the Johnnies.

2. Not Happening, NBA Edition​

Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images

Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets Head Coach)

In a vacuum, Udoka is a slam dunk. He’s had success in Boston and Houston and is a great head coach. The Knicks want him! The problem is that in the NBA, you have to request to interview an active head coach, and, obviously, Houston won’t let us. I severely doubt that he pulls a Pat Riley either. Womp womp.

Rockets have ‘no interest’ in letting Ime Udoka go to Knicks https://t.co/SAXhCouAq3 pic.twitter.com/fjOMHA2fp8

— New York Post (@nypost) June 5, 2025​

Jeff Van Gundy (Los Angeles Clippers Assistant Coach)

Van Gundy has plenty of coaching experience. After being Riley’s assistant in the 90s, Van Gundy led the Knicks’ bench from 1995 to 2002 before spending four seasons with the Rockets. He just got back into coaching, and plenty of people have brought him up, but it doesn’t seem to have any legs.

Mike D’Antoni (former New York Knicks Head Coach)

This is another one of those that is randomly going around and has no legs. D’Antoni has coached the Suns, Nuggets, Lakers, and Rockets, but nobody here can forget his 3.5 seasons with the Knicks, which ended unceremoniously due to his scuffles with Carmelo Anthony in 2011-12. Oh yeah, he also hasn’t been on a bench since 2021 and just turned 74.

Rick Brunson (New York Knicks Associate Head Coach)

It’s not happening. The real question is if he’ll stay on the next coach’s staff.

3. Limited Smoke, But Possible​

Photo by Isaac Wasserman/Clarkson Creative/Getty Images

Mike Malone (former Denver Nuggets Head Coach)

Malone, fresh off his shocking dismissal prior to the postseason by Denver, is the current betting favorite and his name has been floated around by many analysts, reporters, and social media people. However, the move doesn’t make sense.

Sure, Malone was born in Queens and went to high school in West Orange. Sure, his dad was an assistant coach here under Van Gundy. Sure, he’s an NBA champion. Sure, Malone got his first NBA job as a Knicks assistant in 2003. It still doesn’t make sense. Malone is cut from the same cloth as Thibodeau and wouldn’t represent a stylistic change that the front office likely made this move for. He, along with the next guy, won their titles because of an all-world superstar.

Knicks fans wanting to replace Thibs with Mike Malone pic.twitter.com/pBKrvmVGxs

— Blames (@blames_) June 3, 2025​

Mike Budenholzer (former Milwaukee Bucks Head Coach)

Budenholzer is an NBA champion, but his career outside of the 2021 postseason is heavily underwhelming. He was just fired after a disastrous season with the Suns. The major reporters haven’t linked him to the Knicks, but he’s lurking.

Taylor Jenkins (former Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach)

After an ugly and spontaneous exit in Memphis, why is Jenkins considered? It’s not long ago that Jenkins was considered one of the top young coaches in basketball. Despite having the Evan Fournier hair conundrum, Jenkins is just 40 years old and led the Grizzlies to two 50-win seasons in a brutal Western Conference. The culture in Memphis and New York is totally different, and that’s seen in the difference in the public appearance of their stars, Ja Morant and Jalen Brunson. He’s been linked by The Athletic.

Chris Quinn (Miami Heat Associate Head Coach)

I haven’t done much research into Quinn’s philosophy, but he’s on the short list of assistants due for a coaching job. He’s served as an assistant for Erik Spoelstra in Miami since 2014 and has received interviews for the past few seasons, most recently being a semifinalist for the now-filled Phoenix Suns job. Outside of The Athletic, there’s not much buzz on him... yet. Coach Spo is a genius, and it wouldn’t be surprising if someone from his tree succeeded on his own.

4. Real Smoke​

Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Mike Brown (former Sacramento Kings Head Coach)

Another Mike! This one is interesting. While Brown lacks true success as a head coach, he’s intriguing. Looking to optimize your offense? Why not get a guy who was a big part of the Warriors dynasty as Steve Kerr’s right-hand man? Detractors will say that he’s failed with LeBron James (Cavs, 2005-10), Kobe Bryant (Lakers, 2011-12), and his most recent job blew up in smoke (Kings, 2022-24), but there might be something there.

Mike Brown and Luke Walton are among the head coaching names linked to the New York Knicks, per @SbondyNBA

“Jason Kidd, another potential candidate, is also under contract with the Mavericks, but the possibility of him shaking loose is less clear at this point. Two random names… pic.twitter.com/Z6wnDlU8OT

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 5, 2025​

Luke Walton (Detroit Pistons Associate Head Coach)

Also linked to the Knicks by Stefan Bondy is Walton, who was also a former assistant under Steve Kerr. Walton’s exploits on his own haven’t gone well, having been sacked by the Kings and Lakers with a grand total of zero playoff appearances. I don’t see it, but it’s there.

Chris Finch (Minnesota Timberwolves Head Coach)

This could very well be in the same tier as Ime Udoka, but the lack of a pure refusal by Minnesota yet keeps the door open. The Knicks seem to like their chances with Finch more than Udoka and, after back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances, the Minnesota coach is knocking on the door of success. Plus, he coached Karl-Anthony Towns, is connected to general manager Gersson Rosas and got the best out of him in the double big system with Rudy Gobert in 2023-24. They had the best defense last year!

5. The Wild Card​

Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

Johnnie Bryant (Cleveland Cavaliers Associate Head Coach)

Oh, Johnnie.

The man who felt like the successor to Tom Thibodeau walked out the door in a lateral move last offseason to follow his close friend, Donovan Mitchell, to Cleveland. That revamped coaching staff, led by Kenny Atkinson, turned the Cavs from second-rate to a 64-win top seed. With prior relationships to management, Thibs’ old staff, and most of the roster, he seems like the most logical choice to move forward with a fresh approach while having a familiar face keep things steady in the locker room.

But, if it’s such a no-brainer, where’s the smoke?

After losing out on the Suns job to Jordan Ott, Bryant is being linked as a “logical choice”, but that’s it. I’d assume he gets an interview, but if it was as much of a slam dunk as some thought, what’s the hold-up?

6. The Early Frontrunner​

Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks Head Coach)

There’s a lot to unpack.

Jason Kidd is one of the greatest point guards of all time. He spent the final year of his illustrious career as a Knick before going into coaching, wearing out his welcome in Brooklyn and Milwaukee, and has settled into Dallas.

At one point, it looked like the Mavs were a train wreck that everyone wanted to leave immediately. Nico Harrison made the most infamous trade in league history, and they almost had to forfeit games midseason. With Kyrie Irving rehabbing a torn ACL and Anthony Davis increasingly brittle, the franchise was given the life raft of the century when they were gifted the right to draft Duke forward Cooper Flagg later this month, a gift that several tanking Knicks teams were never bestowed.

Dallas’ future outlook is now intriguing. Would Kidd leave it? The bigger question might be, will Dallas let him leave?

The risk with targeting guys currently employed is that you don’t control whether you can hire them. The Knicks are seemingly targeting Kidd in the event that Dallas is willing to let him go.

There’s one more wrinkle. A Greek Freak-sized wrinkle.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ superstar, allegedly on the verge of asking out, loved Kidd as coach in Milwaukee. The Knicks are apparently willing to be aggressive in the pursuit of Giannis despite limited assets. Is this a plan for a 2-for-1?

REPORT: The Knicks are preparing to make a “tsunami-type offer” to acquire Giannis from the Bucks, per @GeryWoelfel.

Here we go. pic.twitter.com/I8Z0yVr92J

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 6, 2025​

My two cents are that you better be sure you can get this package deal done. You’ve been left at the altar by stars for decades. We’re past this. Don’t let it happen again.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...nt-hurley-finch-udoka-kidd-jenkins-mike-brown

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Precious Achiuwa unlikely to return to Knicks

Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

After a season and a half in New York, the Bronx native is likely taking his talents elsewhere.

While the Knicks sort out their increasingly complicated coaching situation, they’re just over three weeks away from the official beginning of free agency, where they will look to sort out the depth issues that persisted throughout the 2024-25 season.

While the status of many of the pending free agents remains uncertain, our first potential tea leaf comes from Steve Popper of Newsday.

Knicks Insider: Knicks' high bar for next coach a mark above Thibodeau's success
So the Knicks have set the expectations at the NBA Finals — and maybe winning it is the only satisfactory result. https://t.co/FG83gz2CDP

— Steve Popper (@StevePopper) June 7, 2025​

According to Popper, Precious Achiuwa, the Bronx native acquired alongside OG Anunoby (and Evil Donte) in the December 2023 blockbuster that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley north of the border, is likely on his way out.

“(Handling pending free agents) will be an interesting decision for the front office. Achiuwa seemed to be most likely to be gone among players who were contributors this season, not signing back with the Knicks last summer until all other options were exhausted. But there was a dissatisfaction with playing time under Thibodeau — and the coaching staff having equal dissatisfaction about the defense and consistency provided by Achiuwa.

“Among the veterans who were part of the rotation, (Landry) Shamet probably has the best chance to come back. (Ariel) Hukporti showed enough as a rookie to merit a return, but the others, including (PJ) Tucker, figure to be long shots to return as the team hopes to clear out room under the second apron to sign someone who can contribute now.” — Newsday’s Steve Popper

As stated by Popper, Achiuwa only returned to the Knicks last offseason after “all options were exhausted.” Achiuwa was not offered a qualifying offer and became an unrestricted free agent, but re-signed on July 30 on a one-year deal using Bird rights. Achiuwa reportedly was dissatisfied with playing time this past season (a lot of that in the last few days, huh), while the coaching staff soured on him as well.

Achiuwa started the season on the shelf due to a preseason ankle injury, making his season debut on December 5. In 57 games (10 starts), he averaged 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds on 50.2% from the field and 27.8% from three.

The winger went from the team’s backup center to on the periphery of the rotation after the emergence of rookie Ariel Hukporti and the return of Mitchell Robinson midseason. That resulted in Achiuwa playing in just eight of the Knicks’ 18 playoff games, playing a grand total of 34 minutes of situational and garbage time action.

Achiuwa’s defining game as a Knick, however, came in a playoff game. In the fourth quarter of Game 4 of the first round series against the 76ers last season, Achiuwa was forced into the perilous position of guarding Joel Embiid with Isaiah Hartenstein in foul trouble and Robinson out with a re-aggravated ankle injury. Achiuwa more than held his own, locking down the 2023 NBA MVP.

Joel Embiid in the 4th Quarter (12 MIN)

1 Point (0/5 FG)
1 Rebound
1 Assist
1/2 FT

LOCKED UP BY PRECIOUS ACHIUWA. pic.twitter.com/03vsYpMtvS

— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) April 28, 2024​

Achiuwa can be sent out in a sign-and-trade, but in very specific scenarios. A first-apron team, which the Knicks will likely be, cannot acquire a player in a sign-and-trade, but can add Achiuwa as a piece to match salaries, as seen with Shake Milton in the Mikal Bridges trade last June.

With his likely departure, Hukporti appears to be in line for his “situational big” role and will look to push for minutes right away, especially if the new coach decides to roll with Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns in the same lineup more often.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ikely-to-return-to-the-knicks-nba-free-agency

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Knicks to ask Mavs for permission to interview Jason Kidd

Photo by JEFF HAYNES/NBAE via Getty Images

The Knicks could take a huge step in their pursuit of Jason Kidd.

The New York Knicks are set to formally request permission to speak with Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd as they begin the process of replacing Tom Thibodeau, according to multiple reports.

Marc Stein first broke the news on his Substack newsletter. Stein reported that the Knicks are “indeed preparing to ask Dallas for formal permission to speak to Kidd.”

“The New York Knicks are expected to formally request permission to speak to the Dallas Mavericks’ Jason Kidd about their coaching vacancy in coming days, league sources say.” — Marc Stein

That report was followed by confirmation from ESPN’s Tim MacMahon and Tim Bontemps.

“The Knicks have yet to request permission to speak to Kidd, who has two years remaining on the contract extension he signed during the Mavs’ 2024 run to the NBA Finals.

“Dallas general manager Nico Harrison and governor Patrick Dumont have not yet discussed whether the franchise would be willing to grant permission for Kidd to speak to the Knicks.” — ESPN’s Shams Charania and Tim Bontemps

This development comes shortly after New York’s playoff run ended in a Game 6 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals and the subsequent firing of Tom Thibodeau.

Despite the team reaching its first conference final in over two decades under Thibodeau and making the playoffs three consecutive years, the Knicks opted to part ways with him after five seasons.

Kidd has emerged as the frontrunner for the Knicks’ opening, at least publicly following this leak, and it’s believed that his shared past with Jalen Brunson might have something to do with it.

A Hall of Fame point guard, Kidd finished his playing career in New York during the 2012–13 season, starting 48 games for the last Knicks team to win 50 games before Thibodeau’s tenure.

Kidd immediately transitioned into coaching following his retirement, taking over the Brooklyn Nets the following season. Since then, he has coached the Milwaukee Bucks and Dallas Mavericks.

The now-veteran head coach owns a 362–339 career regular-season record and is 31–33 in the playoffs. He led the Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals in 2022 and the NBA Finals in 2024 before signing a two-year contract extension last summer that kicks in for the 2024–25 season. Despite still being under contract, Dallas is reportedly open, albeit still considering if they’d do so, to allowing Kidd to explore other opportunities, including talking to the Knicks brass and potentially joining the NYC-based franchise.

Kidd’s connection to Brunson, who played for him in Dallas during the 2021-22 season, could be one of the reasons behind the Knicks’ interest in hiring the point guard to man the MSG sideline.

In an interview a few years ago, Brunson recalled their first meeting after Kidd took over in Dallas.

“The first thing he told me when he became head coach, he says, ‘What do you want to achieve?’ And I told him I wanted to just contribute as best I can, yada yada yada,” Brunson said. “He said, ‘No, we gotta get you paid.’”

During that season, Brunson posted then-career highs in points (16.3), assists (4.8), and rebounds (3.9) per game, setting the stage for his free-agent move to New York.

Kidd is also widely credited with helping develop Giannis Antetokounmpo during his early years with the Milwaukee Bucks, earning the trust of the future two-time MVP and bringing another appealing connection to the table with Giannis now seeming disgruntled and looking for a way out of Milwaukee.

Kidd’s track record in developing talent and building relationships with players is reportedly of interest to the Knicks front office because of the possibilities it might bring in the short-term future with a solid core already in tow and in the middle of a contending window.

For what it’s worth, New York already got in touch with Kidd previously, interviewing the coach during the Knicks' 2020 coaching search, ultimately finishing as a finalist before withdrawing to remain with the Lakers in an assistant coach position under honcho Frank Vogel.

Thibodeau was hired instead, and now, five years later, New York appears ready to hire Kidd once and for all, assuming all parties can find agreements and common ground.

For that to happen, the Mavericks would first need to allow Kidd to talk to the Knicks. If the coach convinces New York he’s the right man for the position, then Dallas would either need to A) release him or 2) agree with New York on a trade for the coach to swap franchises.

Previous head coach trades have been built around draft compensation, such as when the Clippers acquired Doc Rivers from the Celtics for an unprotected first-round pick, or when Milwaukee sent second-rounders to Brooklyn to hire the very own Kidd in 2014.

While the Knicks are limited in tradable first-round picks after last year’s deal for Mikal Bridges, they still control Washington’s top-eight-protected 2026 pick (likely to convert to two seconds), eight additional second-rounders, and multiple future first-round swap rights.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...k-mavs-for-permission-to-interview-jason-kidd

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘There’s mutual intrigue on both sides’

Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images

Jason Kidd to New York Knicks?

Roses are red, Kidd wears blue,

The Knicks need a new coach,

Will it be you?

The latest on the Knicks' coaching search and their interest in former Knick Jason Kidd: https://t.co/2oyIDH5yUL

: @NYDailyNews pic.twitter.com/vLhHNEsAUL

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 10, 2025​

Marc Stein​

On Knicks possibly asking to interview Kidd:

“There is a belief among some within the Mavericks’ organization that the Knicks will ultimately decide against taking the step of asking.”

“As I reported Saturday, I have likewise heard from a few well-placed skeptics who believe that the Knicks would be immediately shot down if they do ask.”

On Kidd’s interest in the Knicks job:

“He is particularly close to Mavericks stars Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving. He and his family are very settled in Dallas. And, as covered in last Friday’s piece, Kidd has been operating as the Mavericks’ spokesman on All Things Flagg since they won the draft lottery on May 12 … expressing his excitement about getting the chance to coach Flagg in recent interview appearances on The Dan Patrick Show, our DLLS Mavs podcast for the ALLCITY Network and two other outlets in recent weeks.”

Windy on Kidd being linked to the Knicks HC gig:

"The way I would describe this is there's mutual intrigue on both sides" pic.twitter.com/93upPVvNEb

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) June 9, 2025​

Brian Windhorst​

On Mavericks’ three options if Knicks express interest in Kidd:

“When the Knicks express interest, the ball would be in the Mavericks’ court, and they have three options as I see it.”

“And they have three options, as I see it, one, they can just say no. Thank you very much! Jason, we’ll see you in the fall. Look forward to the season. Look forward to Cooper Flagg. They can try to make Jason Kidd have zero interest in the Knicks, possibly with the new contract. They did just give him an extension last year, or they can negotiate a trade.”

On Kidd’s past coaching trade:

“And we have seen a handful of trades of coaches over the last 15 to 18 years, including Jason Kidd being traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Milwaukee Bucks for two second-round picks 11 years ago.”

On the Knicks-Kidd mutual interest:

“The way I would describe this is there’s mutual intrigue on both sides.”

“And also, I know there’s this whole thing about asking for permission. You don’t ask for permission to hire another team’s coach when you ask, you’re going to hire them. So, essentially, when the Knicks express interest, the ball will be in the Mavericks’ court.”

Tim MacMahon​

On Kidd’s standing in Dallas:

“What I can comfortably say is that there certainly have been decisions, major franchise decisions that have been that he was not on board with.”

“One of which includes the firing of K.C. Smith, with whom J.Kidd has been extremely tight with since his second tenure as a player in Dallas.”

Rockets are not entertaining Ime Udoka coaching the Knicks.

“Both parties are committed to the longterm project and are actively preparing for a busy offseason.” - @KellyIko

The dream is dead pic.twitter.com/6WWNBtgJcz

— Let’s Talk Knicks (LTK) (@LetsTalkKnicks_) June 4, 2025​

Kelly Iko​

On Knicks interest in Ime Udoka and the Rockets denying them an interview:

“Regarding reports identifying Ime Udoka as a possible target for the vacant Knicks coaching position, Houston has no interest in entertaining that.”

“Both parties are committed to the long-term project and are actively preparing for a busy offseason.”

"I'm gonna always mention the name Mark Jackson...this man was responsible for building Golden State before Steve Kerr was brought in and took over and piggybacked off of that." - Stephen A. Smith on Knicks coaching search pic.twitter.com/XMo6306z77

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 9, 2025​

Stephen A. Smith​

On Mark Jackson being the coach the Knicks should target:

“I’m gonna always mention the name Mark Jackson, because he’s been away from the game for a decade as a coach.”

“This man was responsible for building Golden State before Steve Kerr was brought in and took over and piggybacked off of that and ascended to four championships, no doubt.”

“But Mark Jackson starred at Bishop Loughlin. Mark Jackson starred at St John’s University, Mark Jackson was a rookie of the year playing for the New York Knicks, Mark Jackson was a preeminent voice on the NBA, and he knows and feels and vibes with New York.”

On Knicks management:

“(Jackson) is a native, so a voice for the New York Knicks, where we ain’t got to worry about hearing from James Dolan, who hides from us, or Leon Rose, the president, who hides from us. Got APBs out for their a**es.”

“We ain’t got to worry about somebody like that because you got somebody like Mark Jackson, but I understand that that’s pretty much, I doubt that will happen.”

“There is no one that can question the credentials of a Jason Kidd, but you certainly can’t question the credentials of a Mike Malone because he’s a champion.”

What’s going on with the Knicks and their coaching search?

Column/reporting with @cclark_13 about Jason Kidd, why the early process feels lackluster from Knicks’ side and more:

https://t.co/zvPN36hntJ

— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) June 9, 2025​

James L. Edwards III​

On available coaching alternatives to Kidd:

“Former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone, a champion, is the biggest name on the market with championship experience. Malone, like Thibodeau, is a very good coach, but he shares many tendencies and traits with Thibodeau.”

“Former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown is an experienced name out there, as well. Former Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins is, too. Ex-Los Angeles Lakers head coach Darvin Ham and former Charlotte Hornets head coach James Borrego could also be of interest.”

“They are all good coaches and have had various degrees of success, though only Malone has won a championship as a head coach among that group.”

“Would any of those names be clear-cut upgrades over Thibodeau? Not on paper, at least.”

The top 5 destinations for Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to Stephen A. Smith

KD: Greek Freak:
1. Knicks 1. Knicks
2. Rockets 2. Rockets
3. Timberwolves 3. Mavs
4. Pistons… pic.twitter.com/1eXM95deRy

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 9, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...bulletin-theres-mutual-intrigue-on-both-sides

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Knicks 'definitely' interested in Kevin Durant trade

Photo by Jari Pestelacci/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

KAT for KD? Package of wings? Will Kevin go to the Heat!?

Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant is a virtual lock to be on the move again, and the New York Knicks are “definitely” among the teams monitoring the situation closely.

According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, “the Knicks are definitely a team that is gonna have some interest in Kevin Durant. There are going to be a handful of them.”

“I do believe Kevin Durant will be traded in the coming weeks. Today the Suns are naming their new head coach Jordan Ott… he’s had an introductory press conference. They’ve been going through that process and I expect them to look into the Durant trade market pretty soon.” — ESPN’s Brian Windhorst

Speaking on ESPN’s Get Up, Windhorst added that he believes “Kevin Durant will be traded in the coming weeks,” noting the significance of Durant entering the final year of his deal and the Suns' urgency to right their wrongs.

.@WindhorstESPN believes that Kevin Durant will be traded "in the coming weeks" pic.twitter.com/gUczXveBD9

— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) June 10, 2025​

Durant, 36, has one year remaining on his contract with the Phoenix Suns at a cap hit of $54.7 million and is expected to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 offseason.

KD’s future in Phoenix is uncertain, to say the least, and following the team’s disastrous 2024–25 campaign and the hiring of new head coach Jordan Ott it looks like Durant’s days in the desert are more than over.

“Today the Suns are naming their new head coach,” Windhorst said. “I expect them to look into the Durant trade market pretty soon.”

A trade could mark the end of a brief and disappointing chapter for Durant in Phoenix. The veteran forward has not reached the NBA Finals since 2019, when he was still a member of the Golden State Warriors.

Windhorst also explained the trade mechanics behind a potential Knicks deal.

“The way the Knicks get this done is Karl-Anthony Towns,” Windhorst said. “It has to do with the trade rules. It has to do with stuff like that. The Knicks would have to trade three rotation players otherwise.

“Just keep that in mind when you dream of your Knicks trades.”

Towns, 29, is entering the second year of a supermax contract with the Knicks, with a $53.1 million cap hit next season that rises to $61 million in 2027–28. If only because his salary closely matches Durant’s, making him a logical piece in a straight trade under current CBA rules.

REPORT: The Heat are expected to join in on the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, per @ZachLowe_NBA

(h/t @esidery) pic.twitter.com/QgO30QExtI

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 10, 2025​

ESPN’s Zach Lowe discussed the Durant buzz on his podcast, noting that offseason chatter is heating up around the league and that trade ideas are “flying everywhere.” Lowe presented the Miami Heat as a real contender to pursue Durant, while also name-dropping the Los Angeles Clippers as another possible destination, although doubting if they’d have enough to please Phoenix as well as Durant’s willingness to reunite with James Harden.

Durant has also been linked to the San Antonio Spurs and the Toronto Raptors, with the Suns believed to be prioritizing draft compensation more than developed and established players.

According to Windhorst, Durant’s preferences may influence the process.

“The key with Durant is this: he has one year left on his contract,” Windhorst said. “Is he going to want to sign an extension? And is he going to want to be a part of the process of the trade, and are the Suns going to let him be involved?”

Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 62 games last season with the Suns, failing to clinch the play-in with Phoenix.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...s-definitely-interested-in-kevin-durant-trade

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Mavericks deny Jason Kidd Knicks interview

Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images

What’s the next step in the Knicks non-plan plan?

There is an ancient saying that goes, “The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.”

This post isn’t to serve as a debate over whether the Thibs firing was a mistake. That is done and over with. But Knicks GM Leon Rose had to have had a plan in place when he made that move, right? As of about an hour ago, that plan appears to have struck out for the third time, with the Mavericks becoming the latest team to deny the Knicks permission to interview their head coach for the vacant position.

ESPN’s Shams Charania was the first to report less than an hour ago that the Mavericks firmly denied the Knicks the opportunity to interview head coach and former Knick, Jason Kidd.

The New York Knicks requested permission Wednesday morning to speak to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd – and Dallas gave a firm rejection, sources tell ESPN. Knicks have been denied now on Kidd, Minnesota's Chris Finch and Houston's Ime Udoka.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 11, 2025​

Prior to getting denied by the Mavericks, the Knicks were also denied by the Houston Rockets to interview Ime Udoka, and by the Minnesota Timberwolves to interview Chris Finch.

With the top three coaching options no longer available and it’s worth noting that each would have required the Knicks to give up draft picks as compensation, something the other teams clearly didn’t value enough to part ways with their current head coaches, the Knicks need to go back to ground zero.

There are still great options available which include the three Mike’s: Budenholzer, Brown, and Malone. But at this point all three of those former Coach of Year winners were never on the top of the Knicks list, but now must be considered.

Amid all the coaching speculation, there’s also the looming question of Rick Brunson’s future. His name has surfaced in a few head coaching conversations, though most would agree he’s not ready for that leap. But what happens if the new head coach decides not to retain him on staff? That scenario could create friction with the Knicks’ captain, who took less money last offseason in pursuit of a championship, and who, for the first time in his Knicks tenure, will be playing under a new head coach without the guarantee his father will still be by his side.

The wrong decision could lead to a very slippery slope for a team that just competed in the Eastern Conference, which leads me back to my original statement that the grass may not always be greener on the other side.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...rt-mavericks-deny-jason-kidd-knicks-interview

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘Denied’

Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images

Denials are the freshest New York vibe.

One more day, one more denial?

Knicks for clicks turned Y2K Knicks.

Whatever, wake me up when September ends.

The Knicks requested permission to speak to Billy Donovan for their coaching vacancy but were denied, per sources. The Bulls value Donovan highly for his coaching acumen, communication skills and ability to connect with players and all members of organization.

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) June 12, 2025​

K.C. Johnson​

On the Knicks being denied permission to interview Billy Donovan:

“The Knicks requested permission to speak to Billy Donovan for their coaching vacancy but were denied, per sources. The Bulls value Donovan highly for his coaching acumen, communication skills and ability to connect with players and all members of organization.”

Another one: The New York Knicks have requested permission to speak with Atlanta Hawks head coach Quin Snyder, but were firmly denied, sources tell ESPN.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 11, 2025​

Shams Charania​

On the Knicks being denied access to Quin Snyder:

“Another one: The New York Knicks have requested permission to speak with Atlanta Hawks head coach Quin Snyder, but were firmly denied, sources tell ESPN.”

John Calipari shoots down any rumors linking him to New York Knicks job: ‘I’m coaching at Arkansas’ https://t.co/zdVYYehcWe

— Pro Sports Feed (@ProSportsGoats) June 11, 2025​

John Calipari​

On his commitment to Arkansas amid Knicks rumors:

“I’ve been at Arkansas one year. People are totally committed and committed to me, personally.”

On his current coaching plans:

“I’m coaching at Arkansas.”

On the strength of the Knicks organization:

“They have a great organization, they got a terrific team.”

On the pressure of coaching the Knicks and the opportunity it represents:

“But it’s not for everybody, now. You guys know, coaching the Knicks is like coaching — there’s some college teams, I would say, not for everybody, and that one isn’t for everybody. But you have everything you need to win, and you have New York City. So, someone’s going to get a hell of a job.”

BTW, while the coaching search is on - hearing from a league source that despite reports -- and his all-time greatness -- Knicks are not one of teams in on Durant.

— Steve Popper (@StevePopper) June 11, 2025​

Steve Popper​

On the Knicks not pursuing Kevin Durant despite trade chatter:

“BTW, while the coaching search is on – hearing from a league source that despite reports — and his all-time greatness — Knicks are not one of the teams in on Durant.”

Charles Barkley: "The Knicks gotta be the stupidest damn people in the world." pic.twitter.com/rx57MvIuy5

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) June 12, 2025​

Charles Barkley​

On the Knicks firing Tom Thibodeau without a clear plan:

“The Knicks gotta be the stupidest damn people in the world. You don’t fire no good coach like that and don’t have a plan. I mean, Thibs did a hell of a job, obviously something’s going on there. … You’ve gotta have a plan, man. … I don’t know what the hell they’re going to do.”

"That's the Knicks. They don't know what they're doing. They are their own worst enemy."

P.J. Carlesimo joined @ryenarussillo and shared his reaction to the Knicks firing Tom Thibodeau.

Presented by @FDSportsbook. pic.twitter.com/1kosARE5UG

— The Ringer (@ringer) June 10, 2025​

P.J. Carlesimo​

On the Knicks’ mindset as an organization:

“The Knicks always think they’re smarter than everybody else, that’s the Knick philosophy.”

On the team’s decision-making:

“They think they’re different and we’re smarter than all these other teams and we know what we’re doing, and I would say they’re normally the opposite. They’re often times their own worst enemy.”

PJ Tucker says he’s NOT retiring

(h/t @BASKETBALLonX ) pic.twitter.com/UYcW5RR6IS

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 11, 2025​

P.J. Tucker​

On rumors about his potential retirement:

“Never have (I) mentioned retirement or even given any indication that may be a thing.

“I’m 40 years young 100% healthy, able, and will continue playing the game I’ve dedicated my lief to… HOOPIN!!!!!!”

We New Yorkers support the @nyknicks . The hard work will pay off. Leon Rose is doing a tremendous job. Us New Yorkers will continue to support. Go @nyknicks .
Go New York, Go New York , Go pic.twitter.com/2dE49IXRkK

— Coach Metta (@MettaWorld37) June 11, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2025/6/12/24447886/knicks-bulletin-denied

 

[New York Knicks]

A letter to Knicks fans stressing over the team’s coaching search

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Let it be

The sky is falling, the world is ending, and the New York Knicks are doomed to go back to their ways of old with James Dolan calling the shots, and wanting to make big splash moves by going after the biggest names regardless of reason. If you were to watch the coverage around the Knicks’ coaching search, and or read a lot of the Knicks fans’ reactions on social media, this is what you’d think is the case right now. But I’m here to tell you, yes you, the one taking time out of your day to read an article about the Knicks’ coaching search instead of enjoying the beautiful summer weather outside, to take a deep breath.

While I won’t tell you how to go about your fandom, and if you are right or wrong in their summation that the Knicks are destined for doom, I do at least want to put some of this into context so that they can re-evaluate and maybe, just maybe, stay hopeful.

First of all, I do understand where the fear is coming from. I, not unlike many of you, lived through the dreadful 2000s when Isaiah Thomas and his team fell in love with quick-fix, over-the-hill has-beens, leading to years and years of watching washed-up stars literally limping on their last legs while collecting a big old fat check from Mr. Dolan. And while the Knickstape team in the 2012-13 season gave a lot of us fans a short, but fun reminder of just how good being a Knicks fan could be, the 2010s were also filled with a lot of ineptitude, and questionable decisions.

Between the Andrea Bargnani trade, to the way they handled Carmelo Anthony’s exit, to the eventual Kristaps Porzingis deal, and the many failed draft picks during those years, it was a pretty scarring and traumatic time to be a fan. Season after season, we all had to endure not only losing, but embarrassment, and laughter from other fanbases. And our solution? Trying to convince ourselves that Jerian Grant, Langston Galloway, Ron Baker, Emanuel Mudiay, Frank Ntilikina, Allonzo Trier, Trey Burke, Cleanthony Early, Lance Thomas, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Damyean Dotson, Kevin Knox were somehow going to help turn this franchise around.

So yes, I get that the thought of firing Tom Thibodeau, and not having an immediate replacement, paired with the rumors of the Knicks trying to ask everybody and anybody for an interview can be a bit terrifying. And the optics of the Knicks’ coaching search does make them look rather desperate and dare I even say, pathetic to some.

Thankfully, Leon Rose, World Wide Wes, and the rest of the front office do not care about optics or PR moves. They’ve made that very very clear through their refusal to hold press conferences for the majority of their time in New York. What they have done through their tenure, though, is have a plan and turn every rock possible, even if the odds of said rocks leading to anything are slim to none. Again, if you believe that the Knicks are acting like headless chickens, have no plan, and are losing trust in Rose, I get it, because I can’t say that you are wrong. I have no proof of that.

I have just chosen, maybe naively, and ignorantly, to believe in Rose. I believe that all of this is just him and his team doing their due diligence. Because there’s literally only one cost of asking all of these teams about interviewing their coaches, which is the PR side of it all-which again, they do not seem to care about.

They care about casting as wide a net as possible and seeing if any big fish miraculously bite. That’s not to say that they expect any coaches of Ime Udoka’s or Chris Finch’s caliber to move. But why not try? What if they hadn’t asked any teams about their current coaches, and by some divine miracle, Jason Kidd ends up wanting out in a few weeks? Then reporters and fans would’ve slammed the table wondering why the Knicks didn’t do more research.

People have been quick to assume that Rose’s plan all along was to pry away one of these coaches. But I just have a very difficult time believing that this mastermind, who has pretty quickly turned the Knicks into a serious contender, had no other plan than to find a replacement on a competitor’s bench.

Ian Begley just basically confirmed that the Knicks are very aware they are going to get denials and they know there are coaches who don’t have jobs but they want to kick the tires on their top picks first and those top picks all have jobs. They don’t want to pick a coach and a…

— Skip Sayless ️ (@travbryanmusic) June 12, 2025​

I, again, have chosen to believe that the front office has a list of guys like Mike Brown, Taylor Jenkins, and many more potential candidates that they know are much more attainable than the coaches they have inquired about. I think they know who they like, and who they want, and have a plan to contact them after the asking team’s portion of the plan is over with. Now, are those options the best options? Will they be the ones to lead this team to a championship? Are they going to be better than Thibodeau? I have no idea, and we likely won’t know for months.

"Another league source said that the Knicks' requests for permission to speak to the three employed coaches is just due diligence, gathering intel and compiling a complete list of potential candidates."

- @StevePopper https://t.co/TBpIuRmQ6C

— KnicksFeed & the Big Steppers (@knickzfeed) June 11, 2025​

The worst part of it all is that there really was no winning with the media and certain sections of the fan base after the firing. I can say, with a pretty large amount of confidence, that in the alternate reality where the Knicks announce their replacement a day or two after the Thibodeau firing, a lot of the same media members and fans that are criticizing the Knicks now for taking too long, are also criticizing them for not doing their due diligence.

We’re really getting a glimpse inside the malicious nature of media and its impact with this Knicks coverage. Had the Knicks immediately hired someone they would have been criticized and laughed at for NOT doing their due diligence. This was getting covered negatively regardless. https://t.co/GECrlbcNi7

— Frank Barrett (@FrankBarrett119) June 11, 2025​

As for the fans who are worried about Dolan taking back control, I haven’t forgotten about you either. Much like the previous section(s), I can only go off of what we’ve heard about Dolan, and the front office in recent years. I am no reporter, and I, unlike a lot of people on social media these days, do not claim to have inside sources. What I do know though, is that many believe that Rose would quit if Dolan reverted to being the shot-caller. When Rose stepped into this role, he wanted assurance from Dolan that he’d be able to run point and do things his way—something Dolan has thus far allowed.

Ian Begley reiterated on KFS pod that firing Thibs was a Leon Rose-led decision

— Blames (@blames_) June 11, 2025​

Dolan has a lot of money, but I can’t fathom an owner being in love with the idea of firing a coach he owed $30 million to. I also can’t picture Dolan, even after the disasters he spearheaded in the past, being foolish enough to pretend to know more than Rose and start calling the shots again after seeing just how successful the Knicks have been since Rose’s arrival.

The Knicks do have a plan. And we are in the early stages of said plan. They’ve inquired about coaches they reportedly knew they had almost no chance of prying away. Now, the real process begins.

Guys, the point of a coaching search is to actually SEARCH for a coach.

Sometimes there's an obvious answer that's immediately available. Great. Most of the time, it takes some time. And that's fine. This isn't a race. Do it slow, but do it right. https://t.co/NjCYYUmZUr

— Sam Quinn (@SamQuinnCBS) June 11, 2025​

Ultimately, I do believe that the entire divide among fans comes down to just how much trust you have in Rose, and the front office. If you, for some reason, don’t believe that Rose has a plan, or that his only plan was to go after other team’s coaches, then while I question your reasons, I understand your concerns. Likewise, if you believe that after nearly half a decade of letting Rose do his thing, Dolan started to become more involved in making decisions, I’d be curious as to why, but I would understand where your worries come from.

I feel like the Udoka/Finch/Kidd stuff has really distorted people's impressions of the Knicks search.

If they hadn't gone for guys with other teams, nobody would be crying "THEY FIRED THIBS WITHOUT A PLAN?" It's been a week. They tried something and it didn't work. Chill.

— Sam Quinn (@SamQuinnCBS) June 11, 2025​

But I urge fans to stay calm. Knicks for clicks is back at an all-time high as much of the media has talked about the Knicks just as much, if not more than, the NBA Finals, so it can be hard to disconnect for a bit. And if you were against the Thibodeau firing, I’m sure this only furthers your discontent.

Besides satisfying impatient fans and media, there’s no reason for the Knicks to rush this coaching search. Nobody else has an opening and plenty of teams have gone into the draft w/o a coach but NYK also have just one late 2nd.

But enough with requesting interviews with…

— Blames (@blames_) June 11, 2025​

But understand that the Knicks’ coaching job is the only open one right now so New York literally has zero reason to rush their process. Even in 2020, when everybody believed Thibodeau was the clear favorite, the Knicks took a deep look at multiple coaches. Let the process play out, and then we can go from there.

Here's a list of coaches the Knicks interviewed, considered before hiring Tom Thibodeau in the summer of 2020:

Former Nets coach Kenny Atkinson
Former Knicks coach Mike Woodson
Sixers assistant Ime Udoka
Magic assistant Pat Delany
Bulls assistant Chris Fleming
Spurs assistant… pic.twitter.com/zInKBGGzva

— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) June 11, 2025​

Sincerely,

A Knicks fan who, just like all of you, wants nothing but the best for this team

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...fans-stressing-over-the-teams-coaching-search

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘Thibs took that job when the Knicks were just bums’

Photo by James Devaney/GC Images

Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart have spoken.

Has there ever been an NBA team without a head coach on the sideline?

Will the New York Knicks become the first franchise to pull it off?

A lot of questions, yet not a damn. Single. Answer.

All yall talking trash about Thibs lame as hell. A different direction was taken but yall should be appreciative for what he did for the team and organization

— Josh Hart (@joshhart) June 12, 2025​

Josh Hart​

On Tom Thibodeau’s influence on his career:

“We want to give a shoutout to Thibs, man, you know, especially for myself. He helped make me into the player I am. I had a lot of instability in the early part of my career and he gave me that stability and that opportunity to flourish as a player in the league, a starter in the league, so I’m always going to be forever grateful for him. This is always a tough part of the NBA because you grow relationships not just on the court but off the court and personal relationships, so I always got love for him. It’s always tough when there’s a coaching change.”

On coaching turnover and Thibodeau’s legacy:

“We had a really good year. It didn’t end how we wanted it to end. Sometimes when the season doesn’t end the way you expect it to, there’s always changes. Whether that’s coaches, players. Thibs is my sixth coach in eight years. The NBA coaching profession is tough. Whenever you don’t finish the way you expect, there’s always gonna be changes. That one was a tough one. There should be nothing but praise for him and his time in New York.”

On Thibodeau’s impact on the Knicks:

“[Thibodeau] took that job when the Knicks were just bums. They were 20 wins. He got that job for five years, made the playoffs in four years, first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years. He helped Knicks basketball go back to the top level in the league. He should get a lot of credit for the foundation that he built.”

On criticism aimed at Thibodeau post-firing:

“All y’all talking trash about Thibs lame as hell. A different direction was taken but y’all should be appreciative for what he did for the team and organization.”

Jalen Brunson on Thibs: "My 1st firing. Known him my entire life…Helped me become 2x All Star, 2x All NBA…So grateful"
…
Josh: "Always gonna be changes…Tough one…Should be nothing but praise for him & his time in NY"

Jalen: " "

NEW @Roommates__Show https://t.co/8T2OT8LBFP pic.twitter.com/Dv4xvNsBwH

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 12, 2025​

Jalen Brunson​

On Thibodeau’s role in his personal growth:

“This is my first firing. Obviously, I’ve known him my entire life, but I remember having conversations and moments with him in 8th grade when we moved to Chicago. And to see where he helped me become two-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA. The things he’s done for me individually, I’m so grateful for. He had that confidence in me that I knew I had, but it’s great to see someone push me to be better…. to have Thibs, and to do what he did for my career, I’m so grateful and thankful for. Not enough things can be said about what he’s meant to myself and my career.”

On locker room chemistry amid speculation:

“I think we have a good enough group to where we all keep in touch anyway. Our group chat, we still talk in it. Despite what people say, we all genuinely like each other. Sometimes when you’re going through it, sometimes you have arguments and disagreements. I actually enjoy my teammates regardless of what people say or think.”

On Hart’s praise of Thibodeau:

“I agree. 100 percent.”

Carlisle on the Knicks HC search: "Why would there be an issue about having interest in great coaches?" pic.twitter.com/PyBq7x6nQ8

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) June 12, 2025​

Rick Carlisle​

On the Knicks trying to poach coaches under contract:

“Why would there be an issue about having interest in great coaches?”

Thibs' firing has the Knicks in a tricky spot while searching for a next coach

Melo: "Whatever it is he was under a microscope ... it didn't just happen."

Shump: "I didn't think the man coached a bad ball club." pic.twitter.com/kZoUAz6xgA

— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) June 12, 2025​

Carmelo Anthony​

On whether Thibodeau’s firing was expected:

“No and I say that meaning everybody else thinks that that just happened overnight. That ain’t just happened overnight. That’s been a part of the conversation behind the scenes going on, observations, analyzing, really scouting Thibs. Whatever it is, he was under a microscope for a period of time. So it ain’t just happened.”

On Thibodeau’s coaching legacy and future:

“Thibs is an unbelievable coach, one of the greatest basketball minds that this game has ever seen when it comes to strategy. X’s and O’s the way he studies the game, the way he coaches the game. Let’s get that out of the way. It’s like a peak. Because what adjustments are you going to make from here on out, you’re going to get us here but what adjustments are you going to make to get us over the hump.”

Ray Allen: Lookout for NY if the Knicks Land Giannis Antetokounmpo | Fox Sports AM 1700 | The Dan Patrick Show https://t.co/CvSGTC1Wdn pic.twitter.com/fKkRXeUh4z

— FOXSPORTS1700 (@FOXSPORTS1700) June 10, 2025​

Ray Allen​

On a potential Giannis trade scenario to New York:

“It’s gonna come down to the best deal that Milwaukee sees necessary. For him to leave Milwaukee and understanding the void that leaves Milwaukee, they really want to get something for him so it will depend on what that looks like.”

On what it would take and the Knicks’ fit for Giannis:

“So it will depend on how Milwaukee can set themselves up for their future and who they get back in return. But look out, Eastern Conference and NBA if Giannis ends up in New York because obviously, it’s a huge market. It’s a great market for him, and with the success that they’ve had recently with New York. But it is going to require them giving up one of the core players that they have right now.”

"You're relying on Brunson too much. One guy can't get you there...Kevin Durant will be a guy who will give you some help."

Magic Johnson on what the Knicks should aim for this offseason ️

(via @GetUpESPN)
pic.twitter.com/n7Szq8XRyt

— Knicks Fan TV (@KnicksFanTv) June 12, 2025​

Magic Johnson​

On what the Knicks lost after trading Donte DiVincenzo:

“The swagger left the Knicks when [DiVincenzo] got traded, and they don’t have that swagger again. See, they got nice guys, but they don’t have tough, mean guys, and that’s what Donte brought to the table.”

On DiVincenzo’s value to the Knicks’ rotation:

“I love what Donte brought from the bench when he came on the floor, and New York Knicks fans loved him because he was tough, he was mean, but also he could score.”

On DiVincenzo’s scoring contribution:

“[DiVincenzo] could get you 15 to 25 points when he came off that bench and they missed that, that contribution that he brought to the team.”

On Kevin Durant as a potential solution for the Knicks:

“Kevin Durant, that’s an interesting piece. If I’m the Knicks, the Knicks are too slow. They’re not going to beat Indiana next year or these other teams. They got to get a little faster, right? And to me, Kevin Durant will allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help [Jalen] Brunson in the fourth quarter.”

On Durant’s ability to elevate the Knicks and support Brunson:

“You’re relying on Brunson so much, one guy can’t get you there. You got to give him some help. Kevin Durant will be a guy who will give you some help on the offensive end. Plus, he’s able to put the teams that they play against in foul trouble. I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks. I really do. A champion, he can teach the other guys how to win the championship. That would be important. But the main thing here is everybody’s got to step up and be better next season.”

EMBARRASSING describes the mess in hiring a coach by the @nyknicks front office .They had a guy who has done a quality job in TOM THIBODEAU - if making a change should have your choice guy committed . Being humiliated with all they have sought is pathetic / hire Tom back !

— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) June 12, 2025​

Dick Vitale​

On the Knicks’ coaching search process:

“Embarrassing describes the mess in hiring a coach by the @nyknicks front office. They had a guy who has done a quality job in Tom Thibodeau if making a change should have your choice guy committed. Being humiliated with all they have sought is pathetic/hire Tom back!”

Thoughts on Taylor Jenkins or Mike Brown as the Knicks HC pick?!

Today's #knicksbackpage pic.twitter.com/yrOecdSl5d

— Knicks Fan TV (@KnicksFanTv) June 12, 2025​

Sam Amick​

On the Knicks’ coaching search focus:

“After being denied permission to speak to another team’s head coach at least five times — league sources say they are focused on two names in particular who don’t require permission to pursue: Mike Brown (last with the Sacramento Kings) and Taylor Jenkins (formerly of the Memphis Grizzlies). More names could emerge soon, as a league source stated that the Knicks plan to finalize the list in the coming days.”

"Right now, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade market, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade discussions. He has not asked for it. The Bucks are not looking to trade him."

- Brian Windhorst

( @GetUpESPN / h/t @ClutchPoints )

pic.twitter.com/YFYGmeYCaw

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 10, 2025​

Brian Windhorst​

On the state of any trade market for Giannis Antetokounmpo:

“Right now, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade market, there is no Giannis Antetokounmpo trade discussions. He has not asked for it. The Bucks are not looking to trade him.”

The New York Knicks have requested permission to speak with Richmond High School head coach Coach Carter but were firmly denied, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/ZFMFgX2OBa

— Kevín (@KevOnStage) June 12, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-took-that-job-when-the-knicks-were-just-bums

 

[New York Knicks]

Collector’s Paradise is Back!

Submit your Knicks Memorabilia Collections!

With another offseason upon us, it’s time for a new edition of Posting and Toasting’s Collector’s Paradise. Last summer, we showcased six incredible Knicks collections, and this year, we’re looking to top that number by showcasing the best Knicks collections from the greatest fans all around the world.

If you’re a collector of Knicks jerseys, cards, memorabilia, or have something truly one of a kind, we want to hear from you! Send an email to [email protected] with a short paragraph or two describing what makes your collection special.

Check out the previous collections here.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2025/6/9/24445947/collectors-paradise-is-back

 

[New York Knicks]

Obi Toppin, Tom Thibodeau, and why the Knicks had to move on

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Knicks can’t keep wasting young talent.

Watching Obi Toppin drill big threes and make hustle plays for the Pacers in the Finals last night brought back a familiar frustration: Tom Thibodeau never figured out how to use him effectively in New York.

OBI TOPPIN LACES BACK-TO-BACK THREES pic.twitter.com/4QhA500fef

— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 14, 2025​

Drafted eighth by the Knicks in 2020, Toppin had the promise to be more than a backup to Julius Randle. He brought energy, athleticism, and a fast-paced dimension the Knicks lacked. He even won the slam dunk title, for Pete’s sake. But under Thibs, minutes were earned through veteran deference, not exploration. Toppin sat. So did other young players. And so the Knicks lost an asset with upside because the coach wouldn’t adapt.

That same rigidity is why it was time for the Knicks to move on after their Eastern Conference Finals exit. We celebrate Thibs for changing the culture and leading our heroes back to respectability, but his limitations—particularly his aversion to developing young players—kept the ceiling lower than it needed to be.

New York has three promising talents right now: Tyler Kolek, Pacome Dadiet, and Ariel Hukporti. Under Thibs, none of those rookies but Huk saw meaningful minutes last season—and Huk only played because Mitchell Robinson was recovering from surgery.

Kolek can pass like the second coming of John Stockton but requires NBA reps to improve his defense and gain confidence in his shooting. Dadiet’s a French-flavored hunk of talented clay who needs a gifted set of hands to mold him. Hukporti is a massive shot-swatter who moves well and has a baby hook that can become a dangerous weapon. A meniscus injury sidelined the latter for the second half of the season, but in limited time, he convinced me that he’s a solid rotational player.

To not develop these three guys is a waste of both potential and team-building flexibility. With a deep, veteran-heavy roster, it’s easy to rationalize short-term conservatism, but smart franchises know that internal growth is the key to sustainability. The Knicks need a coach who’s willing to mix in youth with experience, and not just when injuries force his hand.

Former Memphis Grizzlies skipper Taylor Jenkins will interview with the Knicks next week and is considered one of the leading candidates to replace Thibs, league sources told The Athletic. Jenkins posted a 250–214 record over six seasons in Memphis. While the Grizzlies were a consistent regular-season team, they advanced past the first round only once during his tenure. The 40-year-old was dismissed just before the end of the regular season.

NEWS: The New York Knicks’ search for a head coach continues as former Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins and former Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown will interview with the organization next week.

https://t.co/Y0EoeJcEEl

— The Athletic NBA (@TheAthleticNBA) June 14, 2025​

Still, Jenkins should be at the top of New York’s list. Despite a bit of player-generated drama, the coach built a winning culture in Memphis grounded in youth, pace, and accountability—empowering players like Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson, Jr., and Ja Morant from the jump. That’s the kind of approach the Knicks need. With Jenkins, young talents like Kolek, Dadiet, and Hukporti might finally get more than garbage-time scraps—they might get a real shot to contribute to winning basketball.

Toppin’s resurgence in Indiana is a reminder of what New York lost—not just a player, but a chance to grow. This time, the Knicks can’t afford to make the same mistake.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...m-thibodeau-and-why-the-knicks-had-to-move-on

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘Malpractice at its finest’

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

In other news, the Liberty lost their undefeated season but lead the WNBA with a 9-1 record.

The Knicks don’t have a head coach through June 14, 2025.

The Liberty lost their undefeated season to the Indiana Fever on June 14, 2025.

Not the best day in New York City, but look at the bright side: we can only go up!

"I know we got a long way to go, but if Rick [Carlisle] were to win, the only bad thing about it is the Knicks asked for permission to talk to him. Just being serious. I'm not laughing New York."

- Charles Barkley

(via @NBATV)pic.twitter.com/mdMbJAQ12k

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 13, 2025​

Charles Barkley​

On the Knicks potentially requesting permission to speak with Rick Carlisle:

“I know we got a long way to go, but if Rick [Carlisle] were to win, the only bad thing about it is the Knicks asked for permission to talk to him. Just being serious. I’m not laughing New York.”

Jalen Brunson with a backcourt mate like Coby White or Lonzo Ball would change the game for the Knicks

Melo: "Giannis, the Knicks don't need that ... you need a backcourt today." pic.twitter.com/S6wCfq609r

— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) June 13, 2025​

Carmelo Anthony​

On his preferred backcourt addition for the Knicks:

“I’ve been saying Lonzo in New York for a long time. Now, when JB go out the game, now Lonzo can spoon feed.”

"Janky Taylor Jenkins"

–– Draymond Green does not seem to like the Knicks head coach candidate pic.twitter.com/zExCoY8Tut

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 14, 2025​

Draymond Green​

On the importance of player respect in the Knicks’ coaching hire:

“When I look at the Knicks and I take a step back, I’m like, yo, they have to have someone as the coach that is respected amongst the players that they play, but that’s also respected amongst the players that they have on their team or they’re going to make a big mistake.”

On endorsing Metta Sandiford-Artest for the Knicks’ head coach role:

“So when I look at it, and I’ll be honest with you, when you threw your name in the hat I’m like, I never knew Metta was going to coach. But when I look at their situation they need someone like you.”

On the value of championship experience in coaching:

“When people have never won a championship they don’t understand the value of that thing, which is how important it is that the people that walk past your bench have respect for your bench.”

Metta Sandiford-Artest​

On his commitment to coaching without compensation:

“I couldn’t get an interview from my alma mater, but what I did do was coaching. I wasn’t just sitting home waiting. I was coaching and you’re talking about 6:00 AM practices. So what time am I up everyday? At 5:00 AM. That’s way harder… to not get paid as a volunteer coach, taking the job serious. And we don’t have a budget at Division Two basketball. We got to go on Southwest, I’m on Southwest, we driving vans and we get it out. This is for six years, this is what people don’t realize.”

Rick Pitino endorses Mark Jackson for the next Knicks head coaching job @MarkJackson13 joins @TermineRadio & @JumpShot8 and responds to Pitino’s comments https://t.co/lr3hnZY5R8 pic.twitter.com/QzmF3kOUVL

— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) June 13, 2025​

Rick Pitino​

On advocating for Mark Jackson as Knicks head coach:

“I obviously coached our rookie of the year, Mark Jackson. I believe he spent 18 years in the NBA as a player. Great coach with the Warriors and one of the brightest minds I’ve coached. Would love to see the Knicks bring Mark Jackson home!!”

Mark Jackson says Rick Pitino has "great taste" in endorsing him as Knicks head coach. pic.twitter.com/9kovEOP697

— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) June 13, 2025​

Mark Jackson​

On Rick Pitino’s endorsement and his admiration for him:

“He’s a legend. I love him to death. I’m not in the league 17 years playing if he’s not my first coach. I’m forever grateful, and he’s Coach to me. He’s a brilliant basketball mind. He’s turned over St. John’s University and turned back the hand of time to bring them back to their glory days. It’s great to watch. It’s fun to watch. He’s one of the greatest coaches in the history of sports, not just basketball. And on top of that, he’s got great taste by that statement.”

J.B. Bickerstaff​

On the Knicks firing Tom Thibodeau and the treatment of coaches:

“I don’t want to call it the cherry on top, but it’s the final straw, I think, of what has happened this season and the level of respect that we feel coaches deserve versus what they are getting. Some of the decisions made down the stretch with firing coaches, it just shows that there are some places that don’t value what coaching is and what it can bring. When you are a coach, you feel like there is a job that you have been told to do. And when you go out and do that job well, you should carry it over to the next year. If you have had past successes, that should envision future successes. You can’t guess what the future is going to look like with somebody new.”

On the difficulty of coaching and seeing successful coaches dismissed:

“That’s the difficult part from a coach’s standing. We understand it and we know the job we signed up for is a dangerous job. But, from a coach’s standpoint, it is our responsibility to be honest and tell the truth. Our job is extremely difficult. To win in the NBA is extremely difficult. To build teams in the NBA is extremely difficult. To lead guys, who have the superstar power in the NBA, is extremely difficult. So when a guy does a great job at it, from the outside looking in, we want to see that guy get rewarded. And it seems to be cases now where guys that do a great job aren’t even being rewarded with a next year.”

The Mavericks “are not interested in further negotiations at all, don’t even call back is the message that they wanted out there…” as it pertains to the Knicks pursuit of head coach Jason Kidd #MFFL

( : @WindhorstESPN via Threads) pic.twitter.com/ZJjGJ8MZy5

— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) June 13, 2025​

Brian Windhorst​

On the Mavericks’ refusal to let Knicks interview Jason Kidd for the head coach position:

“I think the most important thing here is the message that the Mavericks sent out here was not that his was a ‘Nah.’ This was a ‘No.’ They are not interested in further negotiations at all – ‘Don’t even call back’ is the message they wanted out there.”

Kendrick Perkins​

On the Knicks’ head coaching search process:

“A disaster! Malpractice at its finest.”

On the front office’s lack of a plan after firing Thibodeau:

“They should’ve had a plan. They didn’t. We’re sitting up here watching the Knicks search around the NBA and try to [get interviews] with other [team’s] coaches. What type of stuff is that? They took five steps forward—then ten steps backwards with this move.”

On Michael Malone as a strong coaching candidate:

“There’s no other coach out there, in my opinion, besides Michael Malone that’s available that could step in and fulfill this role, what they’re trying to do, and that’s ultimately bring a championship back to New York.”

The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant's preferred trade destinations out of Phoenix, sources tell ESPN. Those across the NBA have been made aware in recent days that those are the three teams that Durant would commit to long-term. pic.twitter.com/Hqn5hDaWxC

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 15, 2025​

Shams Charania​

On Kevin Durant’s preferred trade destinations:

“The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant’s preferred trade destinations out of Phoenix, sources tell ESPN. Those across the NBA have been made aware in recent days that those are the three teams that Durant would commit to long-term.”

Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson get ejected for a scuffle in their @TheBIG3 debuts pic.twitter.com/rm6UxgQW9o

— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) June 14, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2025/6/15/24449518/knicks-bulletin-malpractice-at-its-finest

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown to interview for Knicks’ head coach vacancy

Joe Rondone-Imagn Images

The first two interviews are in.

Ten days after the dismissal of Tom Thibodeau as the New York Knicks’ head coach and ten days into a highly publicized coaching search, the interview stage has officially begun.

As initially reported by James L. Edwards III of The Athletic and later confirmed by ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Knicks will be bringing in former Kings head coach Mike Brown and former Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins for formal interviews next week.

The New York Knicks are planning to meet with ex-Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins and former Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown next week for their head coaching job, sources tell ESPN. First formal interviews for the Knicks vacancy, and more could come.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 14, 2025​

Brown, 55, got his start in the NBA as a video coordinator and scout for the Denver Nuggets in 1992 after concluding his collegiate career with the University of San Diego. Brown would get his first assistant coaching gig under Bernie Bickerstaff, father of JB, with the Washington Wizards in 1997.

When Bickerstaff parted ways with the organization two years later, Brown latched onto Gregg Popovich’s staff in San Antonio for three years before becoming associate head coach under Rick Carlisle in his first stint with the Indiana Pacers after the Spurs won the 2003 Finals.

After two years with the Pacers, Brown got his first head coaching gig with the Cleveland Cavaliers in June 2005. In his second year, he coached LeBron James and a band of misfits to the franchise’s first-ever Finals appearance, only to be beaten in five games by Brown’s old boss in San Antonio. The Cavs never got back to the Finals despite winning a combined 127 games in 2008-09 and 2009-10, being bounced in consecutive years by the Magic in the ECF and by the Celtics in the second round.

Despite winning Coach of the Year in 2009 and plenty of regular season success, Brown was fired in an attempt to appease LeBron as he entered free agency (didn’t work).

After one year away, Brown was hired by the Los Angeles Lakers following the retirement of 11-time champion Phil Jackson. Despite ageeing to a three-year deal, Brown coached just 71 games for the Lakers. After a 41-25 season in 2011-12 that ended in a second-round exit, Brown was fired just five games into the following season. A desperate Lakers’ brain trust had added Dwight Howard and an aging Steve Nash to desperately squeeze one more title out of the career of Kobe Bryant and Brown was cast aside after a 1-4 start followed an 0-8 preseason. Brown would be re-hired by the rebuilding Cavaliers in 2013-14, but was fired after one mediocre season.

Two years later, Brown joined the coaching staff of Steve Kerr in Golden State after their record-breaking 73-9 campaign ended up in smoke. Luke Walton had left to coach the Lakers and Brown became Kerr’s associate head coach. With Golden State, Brown won three championships and went an incredible 13-0 in the playoffs as an interim coach when Kerr was unable to coach due to chronic back pain in 2017 and later, COVID-19, in 2022. After a great tenure in Golden State with a generational offense, led by Stephen Curry, Brown got another gig in Sacramento.

In 2022-23, Brown led the Kings to their first playoff berth in 17 years with a 48-34 season, powered by a league-best 119.4 offensive rating. He won his second Coach of the Year Award for his After a disappointing exit at the hands of another former boss (Steve Kerr), the Kings were bounced in the play-in in 2024 after a 46-win campaign, before stumbling out of the gate in the most recent season, being fired on December 27th after starting 13-18.

He has a 454-304 record as head coach with a .599 win percentage and a 50-40 playoff record with three different franchises over parts of 11 seasons.

Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Taylor Jenkins would be the youngest coach for the Knicks since Derek Fisher in 2014.

Jenkins, 40, never played the game past high school. He began as an intern with the San Antonio Spurs before becoming an assistant with the D-League affiliate, the Austin Toros, in 2008. After four seasons as an assistant (and a D-League title), he spent the 2012-13 season as head coach, going 27-23 with a semifinal exit.

After one season in charge, he joined Mike Budenholzer’s staff with the Atlanta Hawks in 2013. Under Bud and his staff, the Hawks would be contenders in the Eastern Conference, notching the No. 1 seed in 2015 with four all-star selections before infamously being swept by LeBron James and the Cavaliers. Jenkins followed Budenholzer to his next job, coaching Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks for the 2018-19 season. After one year in Milwaukee, Jenkins was hired at the age of 34 as the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies.

Jenkins led the Grizzlies to the postseason in 2020-21 for the first time in the Ja Morant era. After an expected first-round exit, the Grizzlies broke out in 2022, winning 56 games, with Jenkins being the runner-up in Coach of the Year voting. A second-round exit to Golden State would unfortunately be the highlight of his tenure, as Memphis regressed to a first-round exit in 2022-23 before dealing with a mountain of injuries in a lost 2023-24 campaign.

Jenkins appeared to have righted the ship in the 2024-25 season, but behind-the-scenes disputes with the personnel led to his dismissal just seven games before the postseason, with the Grizzlies getting swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder weeks later. Jenkins went 250-214 with Memphis, 9-14 in the playoffs.

The Knicks will likely add several more names to their interview list, as they did in 2020. Be sure to check P&T’s coaching candidate tracker for the latest updates.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...o-interview-for-head-coach-vacancy-knicks-nba

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Knicks interested in targeting Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr.

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Meaningful rumor? Or much ado about nothing once again?

Even with the NBA Finals being as close as it can be with the series tied at two apiece entering Game 5 on Monday night (ed: the OKC Thunder won and are now one game away of their first NBA title), much of the national media’s coverage of the league has been around the New York Knicks and their offseason.

Who will the Knicks hire to replace Tom Thibodeau? Are they going to trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant? And what will become of Mikal Bridges and the extension that he will be eligible for in less than a month?

These questions have dominated the sports news cycle, and has reminded sports fans that the age old adage of “Knicks for clicks” is at an all-time high. But with yesterday’s surprising trade of Desmond Bane, a new name has appeared as the Knicks’ latest target-Jaren Jackson Jr.

According to ClutchPoints’ Kris Pursiainen, the Knicks may have their eyes on Jackson Jr., and see him as an ideal candidate to pair alongside All-NBA big man Karl-Anthony Towns.

“At least one key member of the Knicks’ front office has long been interested in Jackson Jr. as a trade target. The Knicks’ acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns last offseason didn’t nullify this interest, either. League sources say that a Jackson Jr. and Karl-Anthony Towns frontcourt would be a ‘dream’ pairing for New York in their starting lineup.” — ClutchPoints’ Kris Pursiainen

This makes a lot of sense as Jackson Jr.’s shooting, if capitalized upon, would allow the Knicks to play two big men while still running out a five-out scheme. That would be the kind of spacing the Knicks hoped to surround Brunson with last season.

Adding JJJ would also give New York the kind of rim-protecting big man it lacked in its Mitchell Robinson-less minutes last season. That being said, with Jackson Jr. not being the best rebounder for his size or position, it could lead to some problems. But that still seems like a minor downside considering everything else he could provide the Knicks.

Now, obviously, it takes two to tango. Memphis now finds itself in an interesting position where nobody really knows what they are going to do. On one hand, Sunday’s Bane trade could’ve been made with one thing in mind- rid themselves of Bane’s contract so that they can extend Jackson Jr., and build around him and Ja Morant. That’s what ESPN’s Shams Charania has initially gathered from sources around the league and close to the Grizzlies.

On the other hand, the trade could be a sign that the Grizzlies are open to blowing it all up and starting from scratch, whether that's now or in a few days, weeks, or months. If they were to do so, and become sellers, Jackson Jr. would draw a lot of interest from a lot of teams. And the Knicks would have quite the competition. With that being the case, the Knicks, who lack of kind of assets that the Grizzlies would likely want in return, would be a long shot to acquire the All-Star big man unless a third team got involved, or unless Jackson Jr. asks to get traded specifically to the Knicks- two things that also seem unlikely.

This could just be another rumor that, like the Antetokounmpo and Durant whispers, has very little meaning. But we know that this front office will turn every stone they can, even if the chances of it paying off are very little. We don’t even know if the Grizzlies are listening to offers, and even if they were, the Knicks would need a miracle to land the highly coveted power forward.

That said, people didn’t really expect the Bridges or Towns trade to occur in the manner that it did last year either, so never say never.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...icks-interested-in-targeting-jaren-jackson-jr

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Offseason Watch: Coaching Finalists and Budget Free Agents

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Could Mike Brown unlock the Knicks offense?

The Knicks’ season ended in the Eastern Conference Finals. Two weeks later, they still haven’t named a new head coach, and that’s only one of several major decisions looming.

According to The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III, New York is zeroing in on Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown as finalists for the job. Of the two, Brown might be the better schematic fit. He demonstrated an ability to generate movement and variety in Sacramento, and he could breathe life into an offense that stagnated late last season. With Jalen Brunson fixed as the franchise’s engine, the next coach must elevate the supporting cast. Brown might be the skipper to do it.

Brown, a veteran coach whose résumé includes Cleveland, Sacramento, and Los Angeles, could be the creative spark the Knicks need. Known for designing versatile offenses in Sacramento, he’d bring a more fluid approach—rotating star minutes, promoting off-ball movement, and finding ways to get more out of secondary options. That last part matters most: outside of Jalen Brunson, New York doesn’t have another consistent shot creator.

With only the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception to spend, the Knicks can’t shop in the high-end aisle. Still, there are useful Free Agents to consider:

• Luke Kennard: In his recent Athletic article about free agents, John Hollinger writes: “An absolutely deadly shooter with a 43.8 percent career mark from 3, Kennard’s low release has meant he can’t launch quite as often as the league’s other top bombers. However, he offsets that with more ballhandling and passing skill than your typical long-range specialist. He even took shifts at point guard and averaged 6.8 assists per 100 possessions.” Health might be a red flag, though: he hasn’t played more than 70 games in a season since his rookie year and has missed 83 games over the last three. His price tag, estimated around $10.4 M by Hollinger, may exceed the Knicks’ budget.
• Spencer Dinwiddie. Hollinger writes that, with Kyrie Irving sidelined, Dinwiddie’s value in Dallas has grown as the team looks to bolster its ballhandling depth. Though not a reliable shooter, his shot creation, size, and foul-drawing ability have made him a steady bench contributor.
• Delon Wright: Delon Wright struggled in Milwaukee before bouncing back a bit with the Knicks. Picked up in a mid-season swap for Jericho Sims, Wright’s defense proved valuable in the playoffs. At 6’5”, he’s a low-usage combo guard with good defensive instincts, though his inconsistent shooting limits his offensive impact.
• Landry Shamet. A potential re-signing on a minimum deal, offering shooting and familiarity.
• Cameron Payne. Cam could be a fallback option if others fall through, but signing him would likely require dipping into the midlevel. Per Hollinger:

“He turns 31 this summer and will be looking for a raise above his minimum deal of a year ago; the Knicks can only offer him a 20 percent raise on his minimum to $4.36 million for the coming year unless they use their $5.7 million taxpayer exception. More likely, getting that raise will involve relocating.”

As Hollinger explains, the 2025 NBA free agency market is shaped more by complex financial maneuvering than star power. Beyond the top names (Harden, Irving, VanVleet), players like D’Angelo Russell (Nets), Chris Paul (Spurs), and Russell Westbrook (Nuggets) face uncertain but intriguing markets. Meanwhile, younger guards such as Cam Thomas (Nets), Tre Jones (Bulls), Ty Jerome (Cavaliers), Keon Ellis (Kings), and Quentin Grimes (Sixers) have outperformed expectations, but are likely outside New York’s budget. His full article can be read here.

As for Edwards, he thinks there’s about a 40% chance that one of New York’s starters is moved before the season tips off. Brunson’s untouchable, and Josh Hart’s unlikely to go anywhere. That leaves three names under the microscope . . . read the full mailbag article here.

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...tch-coaching-finalists-and-budget-free-agents

 

[New York Knicks]

A Tattoo Tale: Marcus Camby

Photo by Keith Torrie/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images

Knicks and their Ink

A couple of months ago we started a new test segment highlighting Delon Wright’s ink. The concept got a great response, and we decided to instill it into a new weekly segment but wait until the off-season to fully introduce it.

We’re not going to just stick with the current Knicks. We’re going to go all the way back in time through Knickstory and the Knicks tattoo vault. Of course, there are the obvious names like J.R. Smith, and Carmelo Anthony that we will get to, but there is also plenty of art adorned by dozens of Knicks players throughout franchise history.

To kick things off, we’re starting with the man who helped popularize Chinese symbol tattoos in the NBA: Marcus Camby.

Marcus Camby might not be the most tattooed player in Knicks history, but he holds a unique place in NBA lore. He was the first player in NBA history to prominently feature Chinese symbol tattoos that carried personal meaning, helping spark a trend that swept through the league and tattoo parlors nationwide in the early 2000s. Not everyone got exactly what they bargained for (just ask Shawn Marion), but Camby’s bold ink on his right shoulder and bicep remains one of the most iconic examples of the trend to this day.

Those weren’t Camby’s first tattoos, however. While still a student at UMass, Camby added his first tattoo of a basketball going through a hoop with the words “MR. CAMBY” below the net on his left shoulder. This tattoo stayed his only one through his first two seasons in the league before joining the Knicks in 1998.

When Marcus Camby made his Knicks debut during the shortened 1999 lockout season, fans were immediately struck by his new ink. It wasn’t just Knicks fans Knicks who were stunned, but basketball fans world wide were taken aback by the never-before-seen big bold Chinese symbols on Camby’s right arm.

The top symbol on Camby’s right shoulder “translates” to “Strive to be the best,” while the one below it reads “I love my family.” Camby once shared that his inspiration for the tattoos came from his love of Chinese kung-fu movies. For him, the symbols served as daily reminders to always strive for greatness and the other of his unconditional love for his family.

Photo by Steven Freeman /NBAE via Getty Images

Although Camby has shared the intended meanings behind his tattoos, over the years various stories have surfaced claiming otherwise. Apparently, each tattoo contains at least one correctly translated Chinese word. However, according to multiple translators over the years, when the symbols are combined, the full phrases Camby intended for, do not translate cleanly when put together in Chinese, and they actually translate into Chinese gibberish.

In 2001, Camby added his first name above his first tattoo in an old-school English font, as well as three more additional, yet much smaller Chinese symbols down his left forearm.

Photo by Steven Freeman /NBAE via Getty Images

After Camby departed from the Knicks via a draft day trade with the Denver Nuggets, Camby added a portrait of an infant to his right forearm.

Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images

During his later years in Denver, Camby added another Chinese symbol on the bottom of his right wrist, with the name “MILAN” on the top side of that same wrist, and the name “MAYA” in the same spot on the opposite left wrist, for his two daughters.

Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images

All in all, by the time Marcus retired as a member of the Knicks in 2012, he finished his playing career with eleven visible tattoos, four on his right arm, and seven on his left. Ten of which were added over the span of a very lengthy 17-year career.

Photo by Ray Amati/NBAE via Getty Images

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2025/6/18/24451615/a-tattoo-tale-marcus-camby

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘The Knicks are being disrespectful. Who the hell are you?’

Photo credit should read SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images

Y’all either stop the KD talk or else I’ll have to cover it.

Am I the only one who cannot wait for the offseason to be over and next year to come already?

All of those thoughts, yet we don’t (officially) know the 2025 NBA champion! And the draft is still on the horizon! And free agency, and trades here and there!

Even then, it’s more than slow days for us Knicks Nation.

Marc Spears on Kevin Durant: "There is some fear from him and Rich Kleiman that they're hoping that there's going to be respect at Kevin's age to give him what he wants rather than try to trade him like he's 31" (via @ohnohedidnt24) pic.twitter.com/OVaQnlctzi

— Heat Diehards (@HeatDiehards) June 16, 2025​

Marc Spears​

On Kevin Durant’s interest in joining the Knicks and the team’s reluctance to trade for him:

“KD wanted the New York Knicks. He wanted to go there. The Knicks have no interest in bringing him in, which probably makes Knicks Nation, I don’t know, probably quite interested in why not.”

On Durant’s trade preferences and how age might factor into his next destination:

“I think these three choices are by default. He definitely doesn’t want to go to Minnesota, but I think there is some fear from him and Rich Kleiman that they’re hoping that there’s going to be respect that Kevin’s age to give him what he wants. Rather than try to trade him like he’s 31 years old, which he’s not anymore. I think they’re trying to get a major haul, but they’re hoping that they work with him and get it done.”

REPORT: Kevin Durant was interested in playing for the New York Knicks until they made it clear they didn’t want to trade for him, according to Marc Stein.

“The Knicks also would have featured on that list but were ultimately omitted when NY made it clear that it decided… pic.twitter.com/ytZq26XvIa

— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) June 16, 2025​

Marc Stein​

On the Knicks being removed from Durant’s preferred trade destinations list:

“Durant’s list of preferred trade destinations contains three teams. Yet it almost had four. The Stein Line has learned that the Knicks also would have featured on that list but were ultimately omitted when New York made it clear that it has decided against pursuing a trade for the NBA’s No. 8 all-time leading scorer.”

On Jason Kidd’s commitment to Dallas amid Knicks speculation:

“I do not think he is looking to leave Dallas. He is very settled here. His family is very settled here. And he is very close with the two superstars (Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving) who are in place.”

Shams: "I'm told Kevin Durant has no desire to be in Minnesota with the Timberwolves"

No KD-Ant duo anymore pic.twitter.com/4SxnaO3LLc

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) June 16, 2025​

Shams Charania​

On Durant’s willingness to join the Timberwolves:

“No desire.”

On the Suns’ current trade activity involving Durant:

“Remain in active conversations around the league. Working with Durant’s agent and business partner Rich Kleiman to find a landing spot.”

Jeremy Lin​

On Tyson Chandler’s role during Linsanity:

“Well, Tyson is like the ultimate teammate. Everything that doesn’t always show up… sometimes it shows up on the stat sheet because he scored, but he scored because he set great screens and rolled hard every time.”

On Chandler’s sacrifice and consistency:

“But against really good defensive teams, the people who set screens and roll really hard are not going to get much.”

On Chandler’s role execution:

“If he got one shot or 10 shots or 20 shots, he was still going to do his role no matter what. To me, it just made it simple. I knew what he was going to do every single time.”

On Chandler’s on-court impact:

“He’s the ultimate teammate and ultimate leader, and that’s why I liked playing with him. He was going to set a good screen, he was going to get me open, and he was going downhill fast.”

On Chandler’s athleticism:

“As long as I could engage the big for a little bit, I could throw it anywhere, and he’d go and get it.”

Kendrick Perkins​

On the Knicks showing “no interest” in Kevin Durant:

“The Knicks are being disrespectful saying ‘no interest’. Who the hell are you? What have you won in the last 52 years, to turn down the top 15 greatest player of all time, one of the greatest scorers to ever touch the damn basketball, a guy that could still give you 27 to 30 points a night in his damn sleep.”

On Durant being a better option than Towns:

“Who are you for the New York Knicks to say they have no interest in Kevin Durant? Here’s the question you got to ask yourself, if it is Kevin Durant or Karl-Anthony Towns, is Kevin Durant an upgrade? You damn right, he’s an upgrade from Karl-Anthony Towns.”

On the personal ties with Towns complicating business decisions:

“See, the problem is, it’s not just about the business. It’s about the personal relationship with Karl-Anthony Towns.”

On what should matter in evaluating the Durant–Towns decision:

“It’s a special relationship there, and it’s a special bond, because if it was about fitness and the betterment of this team, of the Knicks organization, and who’s the better basketball player, then you make the move.”

Doc Rivers​

On being impressed by Jalen Brunson’s play:

“I liked him in Dallas, you know, he played okay against me when he was in the first year in Philly. But when we played them, I think it was at home last year, and I was like, holy gosh, this guy is good.”

On Brunson’s dominance despite his size:

“With his size. To be that unstoppable to me is just absolutely unbelievable.”

On his concerns over Brunson’s durability:

“You worry about his health because the way he plays, he plays almost, you know, running back basketball, if you know what I mean. Everything’s physical stuff, but man, he’s way better than I thought he was.”

"I would not rule out the Suns not being able to get a trade they like and having to make a decision, like do we not trade him at all," - @WindhorstESPN on the Kevin Durant trade landscape. pic.twitter.com/o9QoCsOvjS

— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 17, 2025​

Brian Windhorst​

On the possibility Durant stays with Phoenix:

“I would not rule out the Suns not being able to get a trade they like and having to make a decision — like, do we not trade him at all?”

On teams’ hesitation regarding Durant’s age and cost:

Some of the teams Durant wants to go to are “leery of paying a huge amount for a 37-year-old.”

All About the BIG3 - Chicago pic.twitter.com/kcPwuRA5le

— BIG3 (@thebig3) June 17, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-are-being-disrespectful-who-the-hell-are-you

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Eurostash James Nnaji in New York, will compete for Knicks roster spot

Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images

The former 31st overall pick is an intriguing depth option for the 2025-26 season.

Big news out of the New York Post on Thursday. A former second-round pick playing in Europe is coming overseas with intention of competing for a roster spot with the Knicks this summer.

Intriguing 7-foot Knicks prospect James Nnaji leaving Europe for Summer League chance https://t.co/tXbKiCoQcP pic.twitter.com/plajVqoJwg

— New York Post (@nypost) June 19, 2025​

No, not that one. Former Hornets draft pick James Nnaji, acquired as a throw-in from Charlotte in the three-team Karl-Anthony Towns trade, has informed his current club, FC Barcelona, of his intentions to pursue an NBA career with the Knicks, who hold his draft rights.

Nnaji is already working out with the team, according to his agent, and figures to slot into the Knicks’ Summer League team next month alongside second-year players Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, Kevin McCullar Jr., and Ariel Hukporti.

Nnaji was selected with the opening pick in the second round in 2023 by Charlotte, but like the more publicized recent Knicks’ Eurostash, elected to return to Europe while their draft rights are retained by the team that drafts them. While many Eurostashes never come overseas (and Brock Aller seems to love to hoard those), Nnaji is ready to make the jump.

The 20-year-old got first round hype ahead of the 2023 draft thanks to his God-given traits. He was ranked as high as No. 21 as the fourth-ranked big man on The Ringer’s pre-draft Big Board. Describing him as having shades of Clint Capela, Nnaji boasts a filled-out 7’ 250lb frame with a 7’7” wingspan. They lauded his all-around defense, rim protection, rebounding, and screen setting while acknowledging his limited offensive game and occasional boneheaded mistake.

The Nigerian native has never played big minutes in Europe, but got more playing time when he was sent on loan to Girona in Liga ACB (Spain) and Merkezefendi (Turkey). In eight games in Turkey, specifically, he posted averages of 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 16.5 minutes a game on 64.9% from the field and 57.1% from the free throw line. In his four total years in Europe, Nnaji is averaging just 3.4 points and 2.3 rebounds in 9.5 minutes, shooting 69.5% from the field and 48.8% from the line.

Just finished watching some film on James Nnaji and no doubt he is a physically gifted, rim-running big with elite tools but raw skills. At 7’0”, 251 with a 7’7” wingspan and a 9’4” reach, he projects as a mobile rim protector and vertical spacer. He finishes at a high clip (67%… https://t.co/tUxizS6WBO pic.twitter.com/hhp1VasVDy

— David Chabot (@Dav1dChabot) June 19, 2025​

A strong all-around defender and rebounder who struggles to score outside the restricted area and from the free throw line? That reminds me of someone.

Nnaji is unlikely to impress the Knicks enough to consider putting him a situational bench role, but the Knicks will heavily consider at least using a guaranteed roster spot on the big man over a two-way if he performs well in Vegas.

As a former second-round pick, Nnaji is eligible for the second-round exception, which would allow the Knicks to sign him to a three-year contract with a Year 1 salary of under $1.5 million, considerably lower than a veteran minimum. Signing Nnaji and the Knicks’ No. 50 pick in next week’s draft to those deals would almost certainly allow the Knicks to use the full $5.9 million taxpayer mid-level exception while staying below the second apron.

Whether Nnaji is able to be molded into a quality NBA center remains to be seen, but his traits are intriuging to say the least. His mere presence might also give the Knicks valued roster flexibility as they look to add more depth for the 2025-26 season.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-new-york-will-compete-for-knicks-roster-spot

 

[New York Knicks]

Pros and cons to a Knicks blockbuster trade

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Shaking up the core is a possibility, but is it the best way forward?

It’s June 18th. The Knicks still don’t have a head coach. Despite this, the front office also needs to prepare for the upcoming offseason. The NBA Draft begins in seven days, free agency begins in 12 days, and the new league year begins in just under three weeks.

Aside from the highly publicized and ridiculously scrutinized coaching search, the biggest news surrounding the Knicks since they were eliminated at the end of May is the possibility of making a big trade for the second consecutive offseason and shaking up an admittedly flawed core.

The player saga of the early offseason revolves around Kevin Durant and his likely departure from the overwhelming failure that has been the Phoenix Suns under Mat Ishbia. Durant’s top-five destinations included the Knicks, but the team’s assets appear to be dried up. With the Suns not enamored with taking back Karl-Anthony Towns, the buzz died down between the two teams.

However, as Durant’s list of suitors has continued to narrow, it’s come out that Durant was eyeing the Big Apple for the second time in his career, this time for the big brother.

"KD wanted the New York Knicks. He wanted to go there. The Knicks have no interest in bringing him in" - Marc Spears

pic.twitter.com/DwVKjzcfAA

— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) June 16, 2025​

I guess the Knicks are cool now, Kevin. Too bad the team doesn’t appear to be interested.

The most recent rumor, initially reported by Kris Pursiainen of ClutchPoints, connected Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Knicks following the offloading of Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. While it seems to be unlikely that Jackson (or Ja Morant) go anywhere, the Knicks’ interest in Taylor Jenkins for their head coaching vacancy, as well as Jackson’s ties to CAA have sparked the flames.

If the Grizzlies continue to pivot, the Knicks will call about Jaren Jackson Jr.

League sources tell @ClutchPoints that at least one key member of the Knicks' front office has long coveted Jackson Jr. as a trade target, sees JJJ and KAT as a ‘dream’ pairing.

Full story below: pic.twitter.com/bdEJdl8anT

— Kris Pursiainen (@krispursiainen) June 16, 2025​

But is a big move really needed for this team? There’s benefits and drawbacks to a big shakeup, but it’s a realistic possibility. The Athletic’s James E. Edwards III gave it a 40% chance that one of 2024-25’s starters are moved before Opening Night. It can happen, but should it?

Pro: This core was flawed​

It’s very hard to win a championship with two “cones” on defense.

Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are both bad defenders. While Brunson’s is a matter of his lack of physical gifts (standing 6’1” with an average wingspan and limited athleticism), Towns is a pretty putrid rim protector and is not exactly graceful defensively. Both of their shortcomings allowed the Indiana Pacers to dominate them in every coverage, whether it was pick-and-roll, switching, drop coverage, etc.

Brunson/Bridges/Hart/Anunoby/KAT was the 2nd-worst defensive unit (126.1/100p allowed) in Conference Finals since 2008 (min. 50 minutes). Only one worse was ‘16 TOR with 36-year-old Luis Scola. https://t.co/qXOCgmbK9G

— Mr. Statistician Face Man (@tomhaberstroh) June 1, 2025​

The rest of the core isn’t absolved of blame, either. Mikal Bridges was disappointing as a point-of-attack defender and routinely failed to keep up with some of the league’s best guards. He and OG Anunoby were the glue holding the defense together, but both encountered extreme offensive inconsistency. Josh Hart slowed down from his great start (partially due to a knee injury, I presume) and was a borderline detriment to the team in the playoffs due to his lack of spacing clogging the offense.

One year after a series of consolidation moves, there’s a case to get deeper. Both teams in the NBA Finals are deep. Indiana and Oklahoma City are going ten deep, while the Knicks were uncomfortable going past eight in the playoffs. Someone could absolutely get traded for depth. A superpowered starting five is not a prerequisite for a title.

Con: What’s the urgency?​

Leon Rose has done a terrific job of building the Knicks from a laughing stock to two wins from the NBA Finals in just five seasons. He’s proven to not be loyal to a detriment (Julius Randle, Tom Thibodeau) and has mostly stayed away from crippling moves that doom most regimes (we’ll see about Mikal).

One thing that is a weakness of Rose’s, however, is patience.

After his first season, he shuffled the starting five to add Evan Fournier and Kemba Walker. After that disaster, he elevated Quentin Grimes while bringing in Jalen Brunson and Isaiah Hartenstein. A year and a half later, he parted with RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to bring in OG. Just a few months later, he brought in Bridges and Towns.

The overall trend is that Rose is always looking to shake things up. The Knicks haven’t started one season and ended the next with four starters staying the same in a long time.

If the Knicks decided to give Tom Thibodeau a sixth season, a change would be warranted. You can’t fully run it back. But if you fired Thibodeau, you clearly believe that this group could be optimized further. You don’t give this core the opportunity to shine if you make a change before you see if a new coach can optimize their talent better.

Pro: It can pay off big time​

Let’s use JJJ and KD as examples.

In acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr., you immediately upgrade your defense. Jackson is an incredible defender and is a dream fit alongside Towns. If anyone can come in and not only space the floor (37.5% from 3 last year) but maximize a double big lineup, it’s the former Defensive Player of the Year. A package would revolve around Mikal Bridges and could also involve Mitchell Robinson.

With Durant, which is admittedly unlikely, you would see one of the greatest scorers in NBA history don the orange and blue. Despite entering next year at age 37, he’s still a top-shelf offensive talent and is good enough defensively that you aren’t going to have two negative defenders on the court. Brunson and Durant is a lethal offense.

Con: It’s immensely risky​

On the flip side, both can go very, very wrong.

With Jackson, he’s a mediocre rebounder (5.5/game) for his size and his 3-point shot has been wildly inconsistent throughout his career. If he runs into another 32% season, it’s just Josh Hart all over again. Further, while Bridges seems likely to take the four-year, $156 million extension, Jackson would be more likely to wait a year and cash in on a near-$300 million extension. That’s where the Nova Knicks chemistry helps financially.

With Durant, he’s injury prone, old, and has been a diva many times in the past. He’s played just 70 games once since leaving Golden State in 2019 and his body continues to degrade. Meanwhile, losing KAT means relying on an injury-prone Mitchell Robinson. Plus, with KD’s age, if he suffers another serious injury, the window is shut. His career is over. There’s nowhere to go, as his value disintegrates. This is a desperation move.

Pro: The clock is ticking​

The Knicks built their team envisioning a four-year window, but with the new CBA, it’s not that simple.

The Knicks will be in the second apron in 2026-27. That is almost a certainty if they’re still trying to contend. That’s also the year that the luxury tax will start to choke James Dolan with the repeater tax.

Further, the team got Jalen Brunson to take a $113 million pay cut to win now. Brunson is owed significantly more down the road, with the Knicks only having until 2027-28 before Brunson is eligible to sign a supermax contract that looks like... this:

Spotrac
Oh, good heavens.

Goodbye flexibility. Can’t waste a year of JB for cheap.

Con: Are you really that far away?​

The Knicks were two games from the NBA Finals. If they didn’t have a once-in-a-lifetime collapse in Game 1, they’d have forced Game 7 in MSG for a spot in the dance.

The Pacers, conversely, have more than held their own with the seemingly unbeatable Thunder and are two games away from their first NBA title.

With the Eastern Conference missing a definitive top dog next year, who’s saying the Knicks, with better depth and adjustments, can’t make the NBA Finals and compete for a championship? Isn’t it worth giving it a shot with a new coach?

What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below!

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...nba-jaren-jackson-kevin-durant-grizzlies-suns

 

[New York Knicks]

Who Really Wore it Best? #21 Gerald Wilkins vs. #23 Marcus Camby

Getty/Antonio Losada

Doug E. Fresh vs. The Camby Man

After a two-month hiatus during the playoffs, our popular Who Wore It Best (WWIB) weekly segment is back. When we last left off, the most recent matchup in the WWIB Playoff Bracket featured Phil Jackson vs. Allan Houston. Unsurprisingly, Houston cruised to victory with 88% of the vote.

This week’s face-off features another seemingly one-sided battle: Gerald Wilkins vs. Marcus Camby. However, Wilkins has already pulled off one upset, edging out Charlie Ward in WWIB #21. Could he surprise us again?

Antonio Losada

#21 Gerald Wilkins — I was so confident Charlie Ward would take WWIB #21 that I even used his photo as the cover image for the segment back in January 2024. But in one of our closest matchups to date, Gerald Wilkins pulled off the upset, edging out Ward by just two votes out of 247 in a five-way showdown that also featured Iman Shumpert, Wilson Chandler, and Trevor Ariza.

The younger brother of NBA Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins, Gerald Wilkins played for the Knicks from 1985 to 1992. Over seven seasons in New York, he averaged 14.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. His best year came during his sophomore season, when he averaged just under 20 points per game and finished seventh in the 1986–87 NBA Most Improved Player voting.

Often serving as the team’s second scoring option behind Patrick Ewing, Wilkins maintained a consistent role in the rotation until the emergence of John Starks in 1990. By the time Xavier McDaniel joined the roster in 1992, it was clear Wilkins’ tenure with the Knicks was nearing its end. After the 1992 season, Wilkins signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

#23 Marcus Camby — If Charlie Ward wasn’t already wearing the #21 when Camby joined the Knicks, he most likely would’ve continue to wear the same number he wore as a Toronto Raptor and during his college years at UMass. Alas, the number 21 was in use when Camby joined the Knicks in 1998, and he elected to wear the #23.

To me, when I see an Orange and Blue #23, the first Knick to come to mind will probably always be Camby. Just as the #8 will always be Sprewell and the #3 will always be Starks, the same could be said for the #23 (for me at least).

Photo by Steven Freeman /NBAE via Getty Images

In 1998, the Knicks acquired in a draft day trade that sent their long-time enforcer Charles Oakley and the draft rights to Sean Marks to the Toronto Raptors. As the Knicks were looking to go younger as their core was starting to show their age, Camby checked all the boxes. At 6’11” with the quickness and agility of a small forward, he brought a different skill set to a role previously defined by Oakley’s brute strength and physicality. Aware of the challenge ahead, Camby addressed the trade with respect: “No one can replace Oak. He was the heart and soul and team leader. I play different positions. I bring versatility. We’ll take it one day at a time and focus on winning—that’s what I’m about.” And Camby backed up his words with action.

When Marcus Camby made his Knicks debut, NBA fans quickly took note of his transformation from his Toronto days. He had packed on 20 pounds of muscle, shedding his reputation as a wiry shot-blocker in favor of a more physically imposing frame. Just as noticeable were two new Chinese symbol tattoos on his right shoulder and bicep, a league first that helped spark a broader tattoo trend across the NBA.

During the first two years of his initial stint with the Knicks, Marcus Camby primarily played behind Patrick Ewing. But when Ewing suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during the 1999 playoffs, Camby stepped up in a major way. Teaming with Allan Houston and Latrell Sprewell, the trio formed a dynamic new core that energized the roster. Together, they made NBA history, leading the Knicks to become the first No. 8 seed ever to advance to the NBA Finals.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-it-best-21-gerald-wilkins-vs-23-marcus-camby