The New York Knicks’ decision to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau has once again spotlighted the unforgiving nature of NBA coaching. Thibodeau, who led the team to the Eastern Conference Finals — their deepest playoff run in 25 years — is out, as the franchise now looks to find the coach who can take them from contender to championship-caliber.
After a bold offseason that brought in star talent like Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, the pressure is squarely on the Knicks’ front office to find a leader capable of managing high expectations and a talent-rich roster. The next coach won’t just be tasked with maintaining momentum — they’ll be expected to win now.
Here’s a look at the most intriguing candidates, arranged by coaching background:
🧠 Experienced Former Head Coaches
Mike Brown
A proven winner with stops across the league, Brown brings a deep playoff résumé and championship experience. Best known for guiding LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers to the 2007 NBA Finals and helping the Warriors during their dynasty run, Brown was most recently with the Sacramento Kings, where he led them to their first playoff appearance in 16 years before being let go in a tumultuous exit. Despite that, his ability to command a locker room and implement a winning culture could make him an ideal fit in New York.
James Borrego
Currently an assistant with the New Orleans Pelicans, Borrego previously led the Charlotte Hornets to their best season in years with 43 wins in 2021–22. Though Charlotte fizzled in the Play-In Tournament, Borrego's time as a head coach showed promise. Having cut his teeth under Gregg Popovich in San Antonio, Borrego blends player development with tactical know-how — a valuable combination for a team looking to balance veteran stars and young talent.
Taylor Jenkins
A former Memphis Grizzlies head coach, Jenkins was hailed as one of the NBA’s brightest young minds just a few seasons ago. Though his tenure in Memphis ended prematurely in 2024 amid locker room tensions and underperformance, Jenkins’ record of playoff success and player development — particularly with young stars — is still highly regarded. At just 40 years old, he offers a potential long-term solution if the Knicks want to strike a balance between rebuilding and winning.
🛠️ Top Assistant Coaches on the Rise
Dave Bliss
Currently the lead assistant with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Bliss has been instrumental in developing one of the league’s best defensive units. He’s drawing interest around the league, recently making the final round of interviews for the Suns’ head coach opening. Bliss also has previous ties to the Knicks, having worked in player development during the Derek Fisher and Jeff Hornacek eras. With a reputation for tactical smarts and locker room rapport, Bliss could offer a fresh start and defensive continuity.
Johnnie Bryant
A familiar face to the Knicks, Bryant was part of Thibodeau’s staff from 2020–2024 before leaving to join the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he reunited with Donovan Mitchell — a player he mentored during their time in Utah. Bryant has long been considered a future head coach and is currently in the running for the Suns job. He also has strong support within the Knicks’ front office, especially from executive VP William Wesley, who played a key role in bringing him to New York originally.
🔍 What’s Next for the Knicks?
The Knicks have a talented core and playoff experience — but championship expectations bring new challenges. While each candidate presents a unique angle, the ideal coach will need to manage egos, maximize a star-studded roster, and navigate the intense scrutiny of New York media.
Whether the Knicks opt for a seasoned veteran like Mike Brown or take a chance on a rising assistant like Dave Bliss or Johnnie Bryant, one thing is clear: the bar has been raised. Thibodeau got them to the door. The next coach must kick it down.