Report: Knicks face 5th rejection as Bulls deny interview with Donovan

The New York Knicks continue to face rejection in their search for a new head coach.

New York requested permission to speak with Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan on Wednesday but was denied, sources told Chicago Sports Network's K.C. Johnson.

The Bulls value Donovan for his coaching ability, communication skills, and knack for connecting with players and other members of the organization, Johnson adds.

Donovan is the fifth employed head coach whose team denied the Knicks an interview with.

The Knicks have the only coaching vacancy in the NBA, so they don't feel a need to rush their search and are canvassing the league to see who's available, sources told The Athletic's James L. Edwards III.

New York fired Tom Thibodeau earlier in June after five campaigns. Thibodeau guided the Knicks to four playoff appearances, including their first Eastern Conference finals in 25 years this season.