Jeff Hornacek’s 2 ½-season reign in Phoenix saw changes with his coaching staff, leading to clues on whom he might bring aboard with the Knicks.
In December, Hornacek’s top two assistants, Jerry Sichting and defensive coordinator Mike Longabardi, were let go against Hornacek’s wishes. In January, Tyronn Lue, after he was promoted to the Cavaliers’ head-coaching position, added Longabardi to be his defensive guy. It was the warning shot before Hornacek’s exit. Sichting was considered Hornacek’s offensive assistant. Corey Gaines became another former Hornacek assistant when he was let go by Phoenix after the season.
NBA executives believe Sichting, a former Suns point guard, and Gaines will have jobs in the league next season and are expected to be candidates to join the Knicks’ staff.
The Knicks should have at least two openings. Hornacek is not expected to retain Derek Fisher’s hires of former Thunder assistants Brian Keefe, Joshua Longstaff and David Bliss — all of whom could be headed to Washington to join former OKC coach Scott Brooks.
Kurt Rambis and Jim Cleamons would be valuable triangle assets to Hornacek, if the club continues to use most of the offense’s principles. Rambis could feel awkward, however, after Anthony didn’t endorse him for the permanent job, and he may slide to the front office.