Knicks denied by Timberwolves, Rockets in head coach search

The New York Knicks’ search for a new head coach hit a roadblock as they were denied permission to speak with Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets quickly shut down the request from the Knicks, as reported by SNY’s Ian Begley. Udoka, who led the Rockets to an impressive 52-30 record and finished third in NBA Coach of the Year voting, is under contract with Houston for the next two seasons.

This denial marked the second time the Knicks were turned down in their coaching search. Previously, the Minnesota Timberwolves had denied the Knicks permission to speak with their head coach, Chris Finch, who guided the team to the Western Conference finals.

Despite these setbacks, the Knicks may still pursue other current head coaches for their vacant position. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the team is exploring other options as they continue their search for a new coach. The Knicks have been without a head coach since parting ways with Tom Thibodeau shortly after being eliminated from the Eastern Conference finals by the Indiana Pacers.

As the Knicks navigate through their coaching search, they are looking to find the right fit to lead the team back to success in the upcoming seasons. With their pursuit of top coaching talent facing obstacles, the Knicks remain determined to find the ideal candidate to guide the team to future victories.