The New York Knicks continue their search for the new head coach. Mike Woodson is among the names that are evaluated by Leon Rose.
Woodson did his best job with the Knicks (109-79). His performance was by no means overrated.
Before going to 54-28 and reaching the second round of the playoffs in 2012-13, Woodson took over central management for Mike D’Antoni, who was unable to find a way to connect with Carmelo Anthony. Woodson caught up with Anthony more than any other manager and the Knicks hit 18-6 in 2011-12.
Knicks president Leon Rose saw him firsthand as his agent – a clue as to why he got this interview and perhaps he will join the tech staff. Woodson’s departure was only because the new president Phil Jackson had to bring his own staff.
“He got the most out of Carmelo and Amar’e [Stoudemire] by holding them accountable,” said an individual who worked alongside Woodson.
The Post reported that David Fizdale wanted Woodson on his staff last month, but the front office thought he was too high profile with Knicks fans to be his assistant.
After four seasons with the Clippers, Doc Rivers surprisingly didn’t bring him back for the 2018-19 campaign, but a source felt that Rivers’ staff needed a change.
Woodson has told friends that he desperately wants to return to New York in any role and may even be reunited with Anthony.