Report: Knicks trying to complete deal for Steve Kerr by end of first round

Steve Kerr reportedly may wait to gauge interest from other NBA teams. (G. Fiume/Getty Images)

The Knicks and new president Phil Jackson are attempting to complete a deal to hire TNT NBA analyst Steve Kerr quickly, according to ESPN's Marc Stein.

Stein cites sources as saying Jackson hopes to hire Kerr after the first round of the NBA playoffs -- allowing TNT time to compensate for Kerr's absence during the remainder of the NBA postseason.

But Kerr may not be completely on board with the timing of his TNT departure or his supposed NBA destination. Kerr also reportedly might want to test the interest of other NBA franchises.

From ESPN:

. . .sources say Jackson has made significant progress in his longstanding plan to convincing Kerr that the time is right to make the jump from broadcasting to accept one of the league's most high-profile coaching jobs without any prior bench experience.

There has been considerable speculation since the playoffs began that the delay also stems from Kerr waiting to see what other jobs might open depending on playoff results.

NBA coaching sources have maintained for weeks that the Golden State Warriors have strong interest in Kerr, should they elect to part ways with Mark Jackson after a 50-win season, given Kerr's strong relationships with Warriors owner Joe Lacob, son Kirk Lacob (who works in Golden State's front office) and Warriors president Rick Welts, with whom Kerr worked closely in Phoenix.

Stein's report still maintains the Knicks as front-runners for Kerr's services due to his relationship with Jackson and the opportunity to work under his mentor.

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