In a stunning move just days after their deepest playoff run in a quarter century, the New York Knicks have fired head coach Tom Thibodeau. His dismissal ends a five-season tenure at Madison Square Garden.
Despite leading the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they fell to the Indiana Pacers in six games, Thibodeau couldn’t shake long-standing questions about his future. Team President Leon Rose, with backing from owner James Dolan, pulled the trigger on Tuesday. He said the organization was “singularly focused on winning a championship.”
“We can’t thank Tom enough for pouring his heart and soul into each and every day of being the New York Knicks head coach,” Rose said in a statement.
The move is eyebrow-raising not just because of Thibodeau’s playoff success. It’s also notable because he had just signed a contract extension last year, reportedly worth over $30 million.
Who’s Next for the Knicks?
With the NBA Draft looming on June 25 and the Knicks holding only the No. 50 pick, the organization is expected to move quickly to name a replacement. And while the roster is mostly intact for next season, there’s pressure to bring in a coach who can take New York from contender to champion.
Here are the leading candidates reportedly on the Knicks’ radar:
Johnnie Bryant
A familiar face, Bryant spent four years on the Knicks bench under Thibodeau and most recently served as associate head coach in Cleveland. At just 39, he’s seen as a rising star and could provide continuity with a fresh approach.
Jordan Ott
Another Cavs assistant generating buzz, Ott helped Cleveland achieve the league’s top offensive rating. He’s also in the mix for the Suns job and is seen as a modern tactician.
Michael Malone
Yes, that Michael Malone who led the Nuggets to the 2023 NBA title. He is surprisingly available after a shocking pre-playoff dismissal. His defense-first mentality aligns well with the Knicks’ identity. He should be the early favorite
Taylor Jenkins
Memphis’ all-time wins leader was fired despite making the playoffs. His player development track record and high-energy system could mesh well with New York’s current roster.
Mike Brown
Twice nearly hired by the Knicks in past years, Brown is a two-time Coach of the Year who helped stabilize Sacramento before a slow start doomed his 2023-24 campaign.
Mike Budenholzer
A proven winner, Budenholzer coached the Bucks to a 2021 NBA title and boasts multiple conference finals appearances. He was just let go after one season with the Suns.
Terry Stotts
Known for high-powered offenses and his years coaching Damian Lillard in Portland, Stotts has experience managing stars and delivering playoff consistency.
Adrian Griffin
Fired despite a 30-13 record with the Bucks, Griffin is expected to land another head coaching gig soon. His brief stint in Milwaukee doesn’t overshadow years of respected assistant work.
Darvin Ham
The ex-Lakers coach took L.A. to the 2023 conference finals before a first-round exit in 2024. He’s now back in Milwaukee as an assistant and still considered a solid locker room leader.
Bottom Line: With a stable roster and rising expectations, the Knicks’ next hire could define the team’s future. Whether they go with a proven winner like Budenholzer or a familiar up-and-comer like Bryant, all eyes are now on Leon Rose’s next move and how fast he makes it.
