New York Knicks: 5 candidates to replace Jeff Hornacek as head coach

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 11: Head coach Jeff Hornacek watches from the sidelines during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on April 11, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Knicks defeated the Cavaliers 110-98. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jeff Hornacek
CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 11: Head coach Jeff Hornacek watches from the sidelines during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on April 11, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Knicks defeated the Cavaliers 110-98. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jeff Hornacek /
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New York Knicks: 5 Candidates to replace Jeff Hornacek as head coach
Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. David Fizdale

David Fizdale will be one more the most popular names in coaching circles this offseason. His firing as head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies came as a big surprise. The team was on an eight-game losing streak, and he reportedly had a rift with their best player, Marc Gasol. In the end, the player was chosen over the coach.

Fizdale is popular among NBA players. He was an assistant coach with the Miami Heat during their Big 3 years, so he has experience working with different personalities. In his one season with the Grizzlies, he led them to a 43-39 record, qualifying for the postseason.

Fizdale also provided one of the most memorable quotes from the 2016-17 season following a loss to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 2 of their playoff series.

The Knicks would be getting a passionate coach who is respected around the league. Given that, and his experience as an assistant coach, Fizdale would fit the bill as someone that understands today’s players. That connection is something that Perry and Mills are looking for in their next coach.