In a jaw-dropping move just days after their deepest playoff run in 25 years, the New York Knicks have fired head coach Tom Thibodeau. Despite leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals, Thibodeau’s future had been in question, culminating in his unexpected dismissal. Now, with the NBA Draft on the horizon, the Knicks are under pressure to hire a coach who can elevate them from contenders to champions. Leading candidates include Johnnie Bryant, Michael Malone, and Mike Budenholzer. Who will take the reins and define the Knicks’ future?

New York Knicks Fire Tom Thibodeau After Strong Playoff Run — Who Will Replace Him?

In a shocking move just days after the New York Knicks’ deep playoff run, head coach Tom Thibodeau has been fired, ending his five-season tenure at the helm of the team. The decision to part ways with Thibodeau, who led the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to the Indiana Pacers in six games, has left fans and analysts alike stunned. Despite the Knicks’ impressive playoff performance, team president Leon Rose, backed by owner James Dolan, made the call to dismiss Thibodeau on Tuesday, citing a focus on championship aspirations moving forward.

Thibodeau’s Unexpected Departure: A Surprise to Many

Thibodeau’s dismissal is particularly eye-catching because of the context in which it came. Not only did he guide the Knicks to their first deep playoff run in 25 years, but he also had a contract extension in place, reportedly worth over $30 million, signed just last year. Many fans and analysts expected him to continue coaching New York for the foreseeable future, but the organization’s ambition to win a championship led to a major shake-up.

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“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,” said Rose in a statement. However, Rose’s comments about the organization’s “singular focus on winning a championship” made it clear that Thibodeau’s future with the Knicks was no longer aligned with the team’s goals.

The Search for a New Head Coach: Candidates to Watch

As the Knicks look to make a significant move for the future, they are expected to act quickly, with the NBA Draft just around the corner on June 25. The team currently holds the No. 50 pick, but the pressure is on to find a head coach capable of leading them from playoff contender to NBA champion. Here are the leading candidates rumored to be on the Knicks’ radar:

Johnnie Bryant
A familiar face, Bryant spent four years under Thibodeau as an assistant coach with the Knicks before moving to the Cleveland Cavaliers. At just 39 years old, Bryant is seen as a rising star in coaching circles and could offer continuity with a fresh approach. His experience with both the Knicks and Cavaliers could help him step into a leadership role with ease.
Jordan Ott
Another assistant from Cleveland, Ott has earned recognition for helping the Cavaliers achieve the league’s top offensive rating. Ott is also rumored to be a candidate for the Suns’ head coach role and is seen as a modern tactician who could bring fresh ideas to the Knicks.
Michael Malone
Perhaps the most surprising name on the list, Malone, who led the Denver Nuggets to the 2023 NBA Championship, is available after a shocking pre-playoff dismissal. His defense-first mentality and successful leadership of the Nuggets makes him a strong contender to take over the Knicks, a team known for its gritty defense.
Taylor Jenkins
Jenkins, the all-time wins leader for the Memphis Grizzlies, was fired despite making the playoffs. His high-energy, player-development-focused coaching style could be a perfect fit for a young Knicks roster with tons of potential. Jenkins has proven he can get the most out of players and could help the Knicks develop their young stars.
Mike Brown
Brown, a two-time Coach of the Year, was another candidate linked to the Knicks in past years and remains a viable option. He helped stabilize the Sacramento Kings before their struggles in the 2023-2024 season. His ability to manage high-profile teams and create a winning culture could be just what the Knicks need.
Mike Budenholzer
A proven winner, Budenholzer coached the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA Championship in 2021. His ability to lead teams to conference finals appearances and his experience with star players like Giannis Antetokounmpo makes him an appealing candidate. Budenholzer’s pedigree could be exactly what the Knicks need to make the leap into championship contention.
Terry Stotts
Known for his high-powered offenses, Stotts has a wealth of experience coaching stars like Damian Lillard in Portland. His track record of consistent playoff appearances and ability to work with star players makes him a solid choice for the Knicks.
Adrian Griffin
Despite a 30-13 record with the Milwaukee Bucks, Griffin was surprisingly let go. His background as a respected assistant coach and his brief stint as the Bucks’ head coach makes him a strong contender. His leadership and defensive acumen could mesh well with the Knicks’ current needs.
Darvin Ham
The former Lakers coach, who led Los Angeles to the 2023 Conference Finals, could be a great fit for the Knicks. His leadership in the locker room and experience coaching at the highest level would bring stability and discipline to the team.

The Knicks’ Path Forward: What’s at Stake

With a talented roster, including key figures like Julius Randle, Jalen Brunson, and RJ Barrett, the Knicks are in a prime position to contend for a championship. However, they’ve struggled to reach their full potential under Thibodeau, leading to the decision to part ways with him. The new head coach will play a pivotal role in maximizing the team’s strengths, developing young players, and creating a system that can compete in the highly competitive Eastern Conference.

The Pressure to Win a Championship

One of the key factors driving the search for a new head coach is the Knicks’ unwavering desire to win a championship. After a disappointing playoff exit in the 2025 season, team executives and fans alike are eager to see the team make the necessary adjustments to push for a title. The choice of head coach will play a crucial role in whether the Knicks can meet those expectations and capitalize on their current roster’s potential.

Conclusion: Who Will Lead the Knicks to Glory?

The search for a new head coach is a critical moment in the Knicks’ journey. With an exciting roster and high expectations, the team needs a leader who can take them to the next level. Whether they choose a proven winner like Michael Malone or a rising star like Johnnie Bryant, the decision will shape the team’s future for years to come. The Knicks are at a crossroads, and the next hire could define their trajectory as they look to turn their championship dreams into reality.