The New York Knicks have been searching for a defensive-oriented lead assistant coach for Mike D'Antoni, and have finally found their man in former Atlanta Hawks coach Mike Woodson. Woodson has been officially hired by the team, according to Howard Beck of the New York Times.
Mike Woodson Hired As New York Knicks’ Assistant Coach
Woodson had a successful stint with the Atlanta Hawks, improving their record for six straight years. Under his watch, the Hawks improved from 13 wins in 2004/05 to 26, 30, 37, 47 and 53 wins in the subsequent five years. However, he was fired in 2010 after his Hawks were swept in the second round of the playoffs for the second straight year. The team grew frustrated with his stagnant offensive sets and his defensive system, which called for his players to switch assignments on pick and rolls.
It remains to be seen whether Woodson will bring his defensive system to the Knicks, who, like the Hawks, are not a big team and employ a lot of swingmen.
For more on the Woodson hiring, check out the reaction over at Posting and Toasting.
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