May 9--Tribune reporter

Anyone wondering how John Paxson is conducting his coaching search need only return to April 17, the day he fired Jim Boylan and made his only public comments about the process.

"I'm not going to worry about a timetable," Paxson said then.

That across-the-board philosophy even applies to former Coach of the Year winners like Mike D'Antoni, who no doubt would have enjoyed celebrating his 57th birthday Thursday with a contract offer.

Instead, unfazed by media reports that the Knicks were preparing a large offer to D'Antoni, Paxson has made it clear to the Suns coach's camp that he still plans to interview other candidates.

Paxson interviewed D'Antoni over parts of Sunday and Monday in Phoenix. Those familiar with Paxson's reaction said he liked the gregarious D'Antoni personally and is intrigued by certain ideas on using Bulls personnel.

But the same issues that plagued D'Antoni's basketball relationship with Suns GM Steve Kerr--lack of attention to defense, practice habits--are giving Paxson pause beyond possible financial concerns. He will likely seek at least the $8.5 million the Suns still owe him over two years.

That's why Paxson still plans to interview people like Celtics assistant Tom Thibodeau and Pistons assistant Michael Curry, although the latter isn't expected to be given permission from GM Joe Dumars.

Paxson began his search with a long list that certainly includes other unknown candidates. Paxson remains so open-minded he might interview former Mavericks coach Avery Johnson, even though sources close to Johnson insist Paxson has reservations.

kcjohnson@tribune.com

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Bulls GM not sold on Suns' D'Antoni