Sources: Knicks assistant coach target Pablo Prigioni staying in Minnesota

The New York Knicks' search for assistant coaches under new head coach Mike Brown has encountered a setback, as Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Pablo Prigioni has decided to remain in Minnesota. This decision comes shortly after the Knicks received permission to interview him.

Following Prigioni's unavailability, the Knicks have shifted their focus to a new candidate: Los Angeles Clippers assistant coach Brendan O'Connor. O'Connor is recognized for his strong defensive expertise, developed while working under head coaches Ty Lue and Doc Rivers with the Clippers.

Before targeting Prigioni and now O'Connor, the Knicks had also considered other candidates for the assistant coaching role, including New Orleans Pelicans' James Borrego and Dallas Mavericks' Jay Triano.

Regardless of whether they successfully hire Brendan O'Connor to bolster their defense, the Knicks are expected to continue their search for an assistant coach who can provide offensive guidance.