Knicks Coaching Search: Top 3 Candidates As Of May 24th

The Knicks coaching search continues in earnest, with each candidate on our list tied to New York Knicks president Phil Jackson one way or another. Who are they? Find out as we present to you our  Top 3 Knicks Coaching Candidates As Of May 24th:

3. Jim Cleamons

Cleamons' name hasn't been uttered as much as the other favorites in the team's search, but he may be one of the top candidates for the job when the calendar turns to June. As one of Phil Jackson's former assistant coaches, Cleamons' knowledge of Jackson's schemes and coaching style could present the perfect fit for the Knicks. As long as the current Milwaukee Bucks assistant is willing to play the intermediary role between the front office and the sidelines at MSG, he's got as good of a shot to replace Mike Woodson as any.

2. Bryan Shaw

Shaw has tried as hard as he can to keep his name out of any potential coaching searches, stating as straightforwardly as he can that he intends to remain as Denver Nuggets head coach. However, Shaw's ties to Jackson may be stronger than his ties to his current job - and if Jackson can put the right offer with the right amount of control on the table for Shaw, the former Lakers player and assistant coach, could very well rekindle his relationship with Jackson in the Big Apple.

1. Derek Fisher

Here's the reason why Derek Fisher is number one on our list: Phil "Zen Master" Jackson. Jackson wouldn't have put the Knicks coaching search on hold unless he felt pretty dang sure that he would get a favorable response from his former player. This is especially true seeing what happened with Steve Kerr on the first go-around, as Jackson is smart enough to ensure the same thing doesn't happen twice. Jackson and Fisher may already be in cahoots, so be wary of any smokescreens right now that say otherwise.

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