The Knicks coaching search is allegedly a one-man-or-scramble proposition right now, with Steve Kerr firmly planted at the top of president of basketball operations Phil Jackson's wishlist. However, there are several options which have emerged as backup plans -- just in case Kerr picks either the Warriors or Lakers instead of the Knicks.
5. Jeff Van Gundy
Would he really come back? While it doesn't seem likely that Jeff Van Gundy is gearing up for James Dolan Part Deux, his familiarity with the franchise and his past success with the team could be enough to make him a sleeper pick at this juncture. A lot of that would have to come down to Van Gundy and Dolan hashing out their differences over a cocktail or three. However, if the Knicks want to regain some of their fans' good will lost during Mike Woodson's tenure, looking back to one of the most successful coaches in the franchise's history may not be a bad idea.
4. Tom Thibodeau
The situation between Tom Thibodeau and the Chicago Bulls' front office seems to be on its last legs, and Thibodeau's name is starting to pop up for the Warriors and Lakers' openings as well -- which begs the question if the Bulls are attempting to covertly facilitate said talks. Thibs' no-nonsense, defense-first style would be a fresh start -- regardless of what the Knicks would have to give up via trade. Also, Melo loves Thibs. This needs to be noted and underlined somewhere.
3. Kevin Ollie
James Dolan is a fan of making a splash. What bigger splash is available on the market right now than UConn Huskies head coach Kevin Ollie, just hanging out with a 2014 NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship in his back pocket. The question here is whether or not a guy who was this close to finding himself on the hot seat before the tourney can survive the skillet-like atmosphere of the New York media -- especially if the luster wears off and the losses pile up.
2. Mark Jackson
James Dolan -- meet splash number two. Jackson's career ties to the Knicks are undeniable, and his brashness may be just the spark to both keep Melo in New York and lure free agents looking to play for the ultimate in players' coaches. The problem here would be finding a common ground from an X's and O's standpoint between Phil Jackson's desire to install the triangle offense, and Mark Jackson's perceived stubbornness over utilizing an isolation-heavy offensive scheme.
1. Steve Kerr
When does it become do-or-die for Kerr in New York? It's early in the process yet -- but, with teams such as the Warriors wooing Kerr and promising him the moon, the New York Knicks and Phil Jackson may be wise to have several contingency plans in process, just in case. However, if your money is on the line and you need to pick one next Knicks head coach for the mortgage -- Kerr is your guy.