Even GM behind Budenholzer split gives strong endorsement

Mike BudenholzerHawks GM Travis Schlenk said at a news conference in Atlanta on Thursday the official divorce with Mike Budenholzer was “harmonious” and “was as mutual as a parting can be.’’

“Coach Bud didn’t quit on this group, our players didn’t quit on him,’’ Schlenk said. “He wants to move forward with his career.”

That could be with the Knicks, who interviewed Budenholzer in New York on Sunday while he was still under contract with the Hawks.

Budenholzer’s name is an unexpected addition to the Knicks’ coaching search and his divorce makes for a smoother path. Sources have indicated the 2015 Coach of the Year made a strong impression on Knicks president Steve Mills and GM Scott Perry, who…