It looks like all the questions surrounding the Knicks head coaching position can finally be put to rest. Kentucky head coach John Calipari made it clear that he was not interested in becoming the Knicks coach, citing that he has the “best job in basketball”. Legendary coach Phil Jackson is content with remaining retired despite rumors of the Knicks offering him $50 million, his age and health is also a concern.
That leaves Mike Woodson, originally hired as an assistant coach to Mike D’Antoni. Close friends with GM Glen Grunwald and former Knicks president and secret advisor to owner James Dolan (in my opinion) Isiah Thomas, Woodson was hired because they demanded Knicks had an experienced coach to assist D’Antoni after being swept by the Celtics last year. With D’Antoni’s departure Woodson took over and created a new look Knicks with more organized offensive sets and something they never played DEFENSE. Woodson challenges his players and demands their respect. Woodson finished the season with an 18-6 record and most notably coached the Knicks to their first playoff win in over 10 years avoiding a sweep by the Miami Heat.
With all things taken into consideration it is no surprise that talks have been initiated to keep Woodson as the Knicks head coach removing the interim title. According Frank Isola of the New York Daily News, the talks are only preliminary but management is convinced that Woodson is right man for the job. Woodson also has the support of key players, most notably Carmelo Anthony. All signs point to Mike Woodson as the New York Knicks permanent head coach.
Shaina (@Shay_Marie)
