The Knicks’ first swing at trying to lure Jason Kidd to the Garden has officially been rebuffed by the Mavericks.
After requesting permission Wednesday morning to speak with Dallas head coach Jason Kidd, the Mavs denied the Knicks’ request, according to multiple reports.
The Post’s Stefan Bondy reported Tuesday that the expectation was the Mavericks would take such action if the Knicks put in the request for Kidd.
The Knicks’ pursuit of Kidd may not necessarily be over, however, as The Post confirmed Monday that there is mutual interest between New York and the Hall of Famer.
The Knicks’ request to speak to Jason Kidd was denied by the Mavericks on Wednesday. NBAE via Getty Images
If Kidd really wants the Knicks job, he could potentially try to force his way out of Dallas.
He is under contract through the 2026-27 season, according to Marc Stein.
Multiple reports Tuesday said the Knicks’ requests to speak to Rockets head coach Ime Udoka and Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch were both rejected.
Knicks president Leon Rose. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The Knicks are searching for a new head coach after shockingly firing Tom Thibodeau last week, days after they were eliminated by the Pacers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals, the team’s first conference finals appearance in 25 years.
Kidd coached Jalen Brunson in Dallas before the guard signed with the Knicks three years ago.