Report: Atkinson receiving internal support for Knicks' HC job

Kenny Atkinson is drawing "legitimate internal support" within the New York Knicks organization to become their next bench boss, sources told SNY's Ian Begley.

The 53-year-old has been on the market since stepping down as Brooklyn Nets head coach in March.

Atkinson was instrumental in Brooklyn's turnaround, leading the club to its first playoff appearance in four years last season. He finished his four-year Nets tenure with a 118-190 mark.

Before earning his first NBA head coaching gig, Atkinson spent four seasons with the Knicks as an assistant under Mike D'Antoni and another three campaigns immediately after with the Atlanta Hawks.

Tom Thibodeau was previously reported to be the leading candidate for New York's head coaching vacancy. Mike Woodson and interim bench boss Mike Miller are also apparently being considered.