The New York Knicks Coaching Update
The New York Knicks have recently secured Brendan O’Connor as their lead defensive coach, putting the spotlight on finding a suitable offensive assistant. However, one potential candidate, Mike Weinar of the Indiana Pacers, has officially withdrawn his name from consideration.
According to SNY’s Ian Begley, Weinar opted to stay with the Pacers, choosing to assist head coach Rick Carlisle instead.
This decision was made known on Tuesday and was initially reported by Stefan Bondy from The New York Post.
Mike Weinar’s Coaching Background
Mike Weinar, age 41, has built his coaching career as an assistant under Carlisle over the past seven years, spanning both their time with the Dallas Mavericks and the Pacers. He is currently under contract with Indiana, which would typically permit a coaching transition should there be an offer for a more prominent role or increased salary.
Potential Candidates for the Knicks
Fortunately for the Knicks, another potential candidate still in the running is Chris Jent, who is presently with the Charlotte Hornets. As noted by Begley, Jent has a history with Knicks head coach Brown, having collaborated on the Cleveland Cavaliers’ staff.
His extensive experience includes stints with several other teams, such as the 76ers, Magic, Kings, Hawks, Lakers, and back to the Hornets since 2003. Notably, in the 2004-05 season, Jent served briefly as the interim head coach for the Magic, ending that term with a record of 5-13.
Retaining Coaching Staff
Additionally, Brown plans to retain some members from Tom Thibodeau’s previous coaching staff. Coaches like Darren Erman, Mark Bryant, Maurice Cheeks, Rick Brunson, and Jordan Brink will continue their roles as the Knicks transition into this new phase of their coaching strategy.
