Knicks Rumors: NY Could Interview 11th HC Candidate, Doc Rivers Linked

The New York Knicks may reportedly interview an 11th candidate for their coaching vacancy after firing Jeff Hornacek last month.  

On Monday, Marc Berman of the New York Post reported Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts are potential options should the search expand.

Former NBA head coaches Mike Budenholzer, David Fizdale and David Blatt are currently viewed as the Knicks' top choices, per Berman.

New York has cast a wide net while trying to find Hornacek's replacement.

Knicks general manager Scott Perry told reporters they are seeking a coach who can restore the franchise's identity to its previous glory:

"We're going to be looking for a coach who holds the players accountable and his coaching staff accountable. Not only a good basketball mind but a very skilled communicator. A guy who can connect very well with his players and is equally aligned with wanting to be a very strong defensive-minded team that won't only resonate with the candidate we want, but New Yorkers. The Knicks teams of yesteryear were tough-minded defensive teams who competed every night."

In February, Berman spoke with a former Rivers associate who believed the Clippers coach would be open to a New York return. He played for the Knicks for two seasons in the early 1990s.

"Doc enjoyed his time there," the source said. "He respects the city, he respects the organization."

In March 2017, Marc Stein (then of ESPN.com) reported Rivers could leave the Clippers for a reunion with the Orlando Magic "down the road."

Meanwhile, Stotts has come under fire after his third-seeded Blazers were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the New Orleans Pelicans.