Thibodeau out, and a familiar face might be in.
The New York Knicks have officially parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau. Early reports suggest the organization is eyeing a familiar name with deep ties to both New York and the NBA — former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone.
A report from NJ.com cites a source close to Malone. According to that source, the Knicks would be “a good landing spot” if Malone chooses to return to coaching.
“His children are grown and if he wants to coach again, it could be a good landing spot,” the source said.
Championship pedigree — and a New York connection
Malone’s recent departure from Denver came as a surprise across the league. Just one season removed from leading the Nuggets to the 2023 NBA Championship, he boasts a career 904-510 regular-season record and is widely considered one of the most respected minds in the game.
While Malone’s most prominent achievements came in Denver, his coaching career began with the Knicks in 2001. Starting as a video coordinator and eventually working his way up to assistant coach, Malone developed a strong familiarity with the organization and city.
The Queens native also comes from a respected coaching family. His father, Brendan Malone, coached in the NBA and at various New York-area programs.
CAA connection could help seal the deal
One key factor working in Malone’s favor is his relationship with Knicks president Leon Rose. Both have ties to Creative Artists Agency (CAA), with Rose having previously served as one of the agency’s top executives.
The Knicks have long shown a preference for hires who are CAA-connected, and Malone’s representation aligns neatly with that philosophy.
Since stepping away from coaching, Malone has remained visible in NBA circles. He joined ESPN’s playoff coverage as a guest analyst and even breake down games involving his former team.
His smooth transition to media is reminiscent of Jeff Van Gundy, who also returned to coaching after a long stint at ESPN.
Thibs brought results — but Knicks want more
Thibodeau’s tenure in New York brought real progress. Over five seasons, he guided the team to a 226–174 record, four playoff appearances, and a 2021 NBA Coach of the Year award.
Most recently, he led the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals, their deepest postseason run since the Van Gundy era.
Still, the organization appears to believe that Thibodeau has taken this roster as far as he can. With the Knicks now firmly in the contender conversation, the front office is seeking a coach with championship DNA who can elevate the team to the next level.
Michael Malone may be that coach
Between his proven playoff success, New York pedigree, and front-office familiarity, Malone offers the rare combination of experience and fit that could help the Knicks launch their most ambitious chapter in decades.
