Report: Rivers may be interested in Knicks' HC job if Hornacek is let go

Could Doc Rivers return to the New York Knicks?

The Los Angeles Clippers bench boss, who played for the Knicks from 1992-95, could have interest in New York's head coaching job if the organization parts ways with Jeff Hornacek after the season.

"Doc enjoyed his time there," one of Rivers' former associates told Marc Berman of The New York Post.

"He respects the city, he respects the organization."

Rivers, who was stripped of his role as general manager last offseason, was believed to be on the hot seat earlier in the campaign when his squad stumbled out of the gate. But the team has fared better than many expected after dealing away its best players Chris Paul and Blake Griffin in the past eight months, and is currently in a playoff position.

Clippers consultant Jerry West recently lobbied for Rivers to garner Coach of the Year consideration for his success managing a roster comprised mostly of new players. The 56-year-old previously won the award in 2000, and has a cumulative 836-611 (.578) record as head coach of the Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, and Clippers.

Rivers has a year remaining on his deal, which reportedly pays him $10 million annually, and is likely to seek an extension this summer.

Meanwhile, Hornacek has coached New York to a 55-89 (.382) record since inking a three-year deal reportedly worth $15 million in 2016.

The Knicks were on pace to make the playoffs for the first time in five years until star Kristaps Porzingis suffered a season-ending knee injury, which Berman speculates could give Rivers pause.

The Knicks will visit Rivers and the Clippers on Friday at Staples Center.