The New York Knicks, fresh off their run to the Eastern Conference Finals, are now searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Tom Thibodeau following five seasons. The coaching search is underway in New York, with odds as of June 3rd listed on DraftKings Sportsbook for who might take over for the 2025-26 season. Leading the odds is Michael Malone at +125, with other candidates including Johnny Bryant (+400), J Wright (+1500), Mike Budenholzer (+1500), and several others.
Under Thibodeau, the Knicks made the playoffs four times in five years, including their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since the 1999-2000 season. He finished with a 226-174 regular-season record and a 24-23 playoff record. Michael Malone, favored to replace him, was recently dismissed from the Denver Nuggets after leading them to six straight playoff appearances and an NBA championship in 2023. Johnny Bryant, an associate head coach with Cleveland and a finalist for a Phoenix head coaching position, is the second favorite.
Fan Take: This coaching change marks a pivotal moment for the Knicks, who have reestablished themselves as contenders. Hiring the right coach could elevate their championship aspirations and impact the NBA’s competitive balance for years to come.
