Knicks Coaching Search: Jenkins and Brown Emerge After Thibodeau’s Departure

Following the New York Knicks‘ surprising dismissal of head coach Tom Thibodeau on june 3, the team has initiated its search for a replacement. Despite facing initial setbacks with several teams denying interview requests for their current coaches, the Knicks are now focusing on former head coaches, with Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown reportedly scheduled for meetings next week. The Knicks coaching search is officially underway.

Knicks Shift Focus to Former Head Coaches

After encountering roadblocks in their attempts to interview current NBA head coaches, the Knicks have pivoted their attention to experienced former coaches. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the team plans to meet with Taylor Jenkins, formerly of the Memphis Grizzlies, and Mike Brown, previously with the Sacramento Kings, in the coming days.

Did You Know? The Knicks have not reached the NBA Finals since 1999, when they were led by head coach Jeff Van Gundy.

Initial Setbacks in Coaching search

The Knicks faced early challenges in their coaching search, with multiple teams denying their requests to interview current head coaches. The Chicago Bulls were among those who declined, rejecting New York’s bid to speak with head coach Billy Donovan.

Other Potential Coaching candidates

While Jenkins and Brown are currently in the mix, other names have also been mentioned as potential candidates for the Knicks head coaching job. these include former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone, former Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, and Jeff Van Gundy, who last coached in the NBA in 2007.

luke Walton, currently a lead assistant for the Detroit Pistons, and James Borrego, have also been cited as possible options.NBA insiders suggest that the Knicks are looking for a coach with a proven track record and the ability to connect with the team’s core players.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on candidates with experience in player development, as the Knicks have a young and promising roster.

The Firing of Tom Thibodeau

The Knicks’ decision to fire Tom Thibodeau came as a surprise to many, given the team’s recent success. Thibodeau led the Knicks to a 51-31 regular-season record in 2024-25, their best in 12 years, and guided them to their first playoff series win in over a decade. The team’s performance marked a significant turnaround under Thibodeau’s leadership.

Knicks president Leon Rose stated that the move was “best for our organization moving forward” and thanked Thibodeau for his contributions.

Thibodeau’s Tenure with the Knicks

Thibodeau’s tenure with the Knicks saw the team return to relevance in the Eastern Conference.In 2020-21, his first season with the team, he earned his second NBA Coach of the Year award after leading the Knicks to their first winning record and playoff appearance as 2012-13.During his five years in New York, the Knicks had only one losing season.

prior to joining the Knicks, Thibodeau served as head coach of the Chicago Bulls (2010-15) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2016-19). He has a career head coaching record of 578-420 (.579). While he has yet to win an NBA championship as a head coach, he won a title as the Celtics’ associate head coach in 2008.

The Knicks are still obligated to pay Thibodeau at least $30 million as part of the extension he signed in 2024.

Coaching Candidate Profiles

What qualities do you think are most critically important for the next Knicks head coach? Which candidate would be the best fit for the team?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the Knicks coaching search and should not be considered as professional sports advice.

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