Knicks might keep on Mitchell

While Mark Jackson is expected to talk to the Bulls Wednesday, Sam Mitchell may soon pose the largest threat to Jackson's lead candidacy for the Knicks' job.

Tonight, Mitchell's Raptors are on the verge of being bounced out in the first round by Orlando in five games. Speculation in Canada is GM Bryan Colangelo could have an itchy trigger finger. Colangelo has not hired his own coach in Toronto and could want to bring in Phoenix's Mike D'Antoni if he loses his Suns' job.

Although Jackson is the huge favorite among current available Knicks candidates after interviewing with Donnie Walsh on Thursday, Mitchell is someone Walsh would consider.

When it appeared Mitchell's contract would not be renewed after last season, Indiana was poised to interview him. Mitchell played three seasons for Walsh's Pacers in the 1990's.

If Jackson isn't hired this week, Walsh is waiting for the first-round fallout that could include the firings of Dallas' Avery Johnson and even George Karl in Denver. The Rocky Mountain News reported yesterday Karl appears safe.

Herb Williams will interview this week a second time and Walsh has intimated he may give courtesy interviews to assistants Tom Thibodeau and Chuck Person, both of whom have applied for the job.

TNT/MSG Network's Kenny Smith said last night "it's a good possibility" he will meet with Walsh this week, as he's inquired about working in the Knicks' front office and mentioned coaching.

marc.berman@nypost.com

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