How would Tom Thibodeau and Phil Jackson have meshed as a power duo with the New York Knicks?
While we'll never really know considering Thibodeau was hired by the Minnesota Timberwolves last week, the idea was “intriguing” to Knicks owner James Dolan, according to Ian Begley of ESPN:
“Owner James Dolan was “intrigued” by the idea of hiring Thibodeau as the next head coach, league sources say. Based on how things transpired, that intrigue clearly didn't lead to Thibodeau landing the job. All we know at this point is that Jackson remains focused on other candidates for the opening.”
Reports have stated that the Knicks never pursued Thibodeau due to Phil Jackson's fear that both of them would clash. It's also been thought that Thibodeau would have never joined New York because he wanted total control over personnel.
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According to Begley, this is inaccurate—Thibodeau would have accepted the Knicks head coaching gig without a front office job.
“Some have suggested the Knicks couldn't have hired Thibodeau without giving him the type of personnel control that he now has in Minnesota. This is inaccurate. Thibodeau would have accepted a coaching job without a front office title to coach the Knicks, league sources say.”
The Knicks may not have pursued any talks in regards to signing the former Coach of the Year, but their owner was at least intrigued by the possibility of it.
With Thibodeau out of the picture, New York is currently in talks with former Cleveland Cavaliers coach David Blatt about the head coach opening.
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