Taylor Jenkins To Interview First For Knicks Coaching Job; Kidd Remains A Candidate

James

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Taylor Jenkins to Interview First for Knicks Coaching Job; Kidd Remains a Candidate

The New York Knicks coaching search is heating up, with Memphis Grizzlies assistant Taylor Jenkins set to be the first candidate interviewed for the vacant head coaching position. This news, breaking late Tuesday, sends ripples through the NBA coaching carousel, adding another layer of intrigue to what's already a highly anticipated hiring process. While Jenkins is first in line, Jason Kidd, a former Knicks player and coach, remains firmly in the mix, creating a compelling contrast in experience and style.

This development signifies a potential shift in the Knicks' approach. While Kidd's name has been consistently linked to the job, the decision to interview Jenkins first suggests a willingness to explore a wider range of candidates and potentially prioritize a different coaching philosophy.

Jenkins: A Rising Star in the Coaching Ranks

Taylor Jenkins, at 40, represents a younger, more analytically driven coaching style. His success as an assistant with the Memphis Grizzlies, particularly in developing young talent like Ja Morant, speaks volumes about his coaching acumen. He's known for his offensive schemes and player development, crucial aspects the Knicks desperately need to address. His interview will likely focus on his ability to instill a modern, fast-paced offensive system and cultivate a winning culture within the locker room.

The Knicks' front office clearly values Jenkins’ success in Memphis. His work with Morant, transforming him into an MVP candidate, is a compelling argument for his potential to similarly elevate young Knicks stars like RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. This focus on player development is a key area the Knicks need to improve, and Jenkins’ proven track record makes him an attractive candidate.

Kidd: Experience vs. New Direction

Jason Kidd, a legendary NBA player and former Knicks coach, brings a wealth of experience to the table. However, his previous stint with the Knicks was marked by inconsistency and ultimately ended in dismissal. While his knowledge of the game is undeniable, the Knicks' front office will undoubtedly scrutinize his past performance and assess whether he’s the right fit for the team's current needs. His interview will likely center around his leadership style, ability to manage a young roster, and how he would address the team's offensive and defensive shortcomings.

The contrast between Jenkins and Kidd offers the Knicks a fascinating choice: the established veteran with proven (albeit mixed) results, or the rising star with a modern approach and demonstrable success in player development.

What's Next for the Knicks?

The Knicks’ coaching search is far from over. While Jenkins is first up, several other potential candidates are likely to follow. The franchise is clearly conducting a thorough evaluation process, aiming to find the best possible leader to guide them towards sustained success. The coming weeks will be crucial, shaping not only the future of the Knicks but also the wider landscape of NBA coaching. We will continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds. Stay tuned for more news and analysis on this developing story!

Keywords: Taylor Jenkins, Jason Kidd, New York Knicks, NBA coaching search, coaching candidate, NBA coach, Knicks coaching job, player development, offensive schemes, Ja Morant, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, NBA news

(Note: This article is for illustrative purposes and does not reflect real-time breaking news. Always verify information from reputable sources.)