Van Gundy won’t rule out Knicks return, but backs Jackson, too

Jeff Van GundyThough his buddy Mark Jackson is up for the same gig, former Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy hasn’t ruled out being a candidate for the coaching job. However, during a radio interview Friday, he tried mostly to deflect the situation while giving a strong endorsement to his broadcast partner.

There’s a sense the awkwardness of colleagues and close friends competing for the same job could sway Van Gundy from making a hot pursuit if the Knicks turn out to be interested. He made it clear he thought Jackson, who played for him with the Knicks, would be an excellent hire.

But asked if he would be interested if team president Steve Mills asked him for an interview, Van Gundy, Friday on…