The New York Knicks are reportedly seeking to reunite star Jalen Brunson with his former coach, Jason Kidd. The Knicks plan to request permission from the Dallas Mavericks to interview Kidd for their vacant head-coaching position, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. The team’s interest in Kidd is described as “serious,” with some considering him a top candidate.
The Knicks are searching for a new head coach following the unexpected firing of Tom Thibodeau, who led the team to the Eastern Conference finals. New York lost to the Indiana Pacers in six games, and Thibodeau was dismissed shortly after the elimination.
It remains uncertain how the Mavericks will respond to the Knicks’ request. Dallas has the authority to deny the request, forcing New York to explore other options if they are not allowed to speak with Kidd. While the Knicks are also reportedly interested in Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka, Stein reported that the team would decline that request.
Kidd, 52, was hired by the Mavericks before the 2021-22 NBA season, the same season Brunson secured a starting role. He averaged 16.3 points and 4.8 assists in 79 games. That offseason, Brunson signed a four-year, $104 million deal with the Knicks and continued to excel, often crediting Kidd for his development into a star player.
Kidd has largely succeeded in his four seasons with the Mavericks, leading the team to two playoff appearances, including a run to the NBA Finals last year, where they lost to the Boston Celtics in five games. Injuries and the surprising trade of superstar guard Luka Dončić caused the Mavericks to finish 39-43 this season. However, Dallas secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and is expected to select Duke standout Cooper Flagg. Additionally, Kidd signed an extension with the team in May 2024, which could keep him in Dallas.
Kidd has a .516 winning percentage over his nine-year head-coaching career across three different franchises. He began with the Brooklyn Nets, then joined the Milwaukee Bucks, and after two years as an assistant with the Los Angeles Lakers, he was hired by Dallas in 2021. Given his connection with Brunson and the fact that he finished his playing career in New York, Kidd might be interested in a move to the Knicks. However, the decision rests with the Mavericks, who hold the power if the Knicks make their request.