Something is going on in Utah that may not be beneficial to the Knicks cause.
Quin Snyder, one of the most successful and beloved coaches in the league, resigned after an eight-year career and a 372-264 record with the Jazz.
The league’s sentiment is that the Donovan Mitchell combo is somehow involved in the shock, though ESPN reports that Mitchell is “disappointed” and “restless.” The franchise is at a crossroads after a knockout in the first round against Dallas in the playoffs. .
The Jazz are contemplating breaking the Mitchell-Rudy Gobert tandem that has been a solid playoff participant but not powerful enough to reach a Western Conference final.
The Knicks, and several other teams, are monitoring Mitchell’s situation to see if he is asking for a change. Snyder said in a statement that Jazz needs “a new voice.”
Donovan MitchellGetty Images Quin SnyderAP
According to a source, Knicks assistant coach Johnny Bryant, a former Jazz assistant and friend of Mitchell, is likely to interview. Utah President Danny Ainge does not know Bryant, but if he is taken into account, it is a sign that Mitchell is influencing matters despite being disappointed.
According to sources, former Trail Blazers coach Terry Stotts is the first favorite and recently fired Lakers coach Frank Vogel could also ask for a look. Celtics assistant Will Hardy reportedly will also receive an interview.
Mitchell is a client of the Creative Artists Agency, so Knicks president Leon Rose, a former head of basketball at the CAA, could have information about where Mitchell’s boss is.
Mitchell, who is from Westchester, did not commit after being eliminated from the Jazz playoffs. League sources believe Mitchell will finally ask for a change, but it may not be until next summer.
If Bryant leaves for Utah, it will mean that the three assistants to senior executive William Wesley hired for Tom Thibodeau’s staff will have taken up the job of head coach. Mike Woodson (Indiana University) and Kenny Payne (Louisville) are gone.