Here’s a rewritten version of the content in my own words:
Some reflections on the Knicks, peace of mind, Tom Thibodeau’s responsibilities, and the future direction of the franchise…
It’s hard to believe now, but things were rough early on for Jalen Brunson after joining the Knicks. In early December 2022, New York embarrassed the Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic, winning by 26 points in the third quarter during an easy road victory. At that point, the Knicks had lost six of eight games and were booed by their home fans. The next night, they faced Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Thibodeau’s job security was on the line. If things hadn’t turned around, team president Leon Rose was reportedly prepared to part ways with the coach.
However, the Knicks beat the Cavs that night and went on an eight-game winning streak that transformed their season and secured the futures of both Rose and Thibodeau.
From there, the story is well known. Led by Brunson, the Knicks won their first playoff series in a decade that spring, overcoming Cleveland in the first round. The following season, they won two playoff rounds and made it to the Eastern Conference Finals—their first appearance there in 25 years.
So why did Rose decide to fire Thibodeau just three days after the Knicks’ best season in decades? Why was Rose willing to stand by Thibodeau in 2022 but willing to part ways within three years?
The Knicks stated on Tuesday they needed a new voice. While they valued everything Thibodeau contributed, they didn’t see him as the coach to bring an NBA title to the franchise. As one insider noted, "It’s all about winning—the championship now."
Ultimately, the decision rested with Rose. Although owner James Dolan supported the move, Knicks fans know Dolan’s long history of deep involvement in basketball decisions. But now, Dolan trusted Rose to make this call. If Rose had disagreed, he likely would have resigned alongside Thibodeau—yet he didn’t.
The Knicks are taking a significant risk. Letting Thibodeau go means paying out at least $30 million left on his contract, extended just last summer. This shows how strongly Rose feels about moving in a new direction with Dolan’s backing.
As reported by SNY, the Knicks conducted player and coach evaluations after the season, but these were different from typical exit interviews. Only a select few players were interviewed, with Thibodeau and his staff participating, along with Dolan. This was more an assessment of what went wrong and what needed fixing, ultimately leading to Thibodeau’s dismissal.
What’s next for the Knicks?
Former associate head coach Johnny Bryant is reportedly a finalist for the Phoenix Suns job. Some speculate the Knicks timed the firing to pursue Bryant, but sources suggest these events are unrelated. The Knicks likely won’t announce a new head coach immediately.
Other rumored candidates include Mike Malone, though the "slam dunk" hire might be elsewhere. Jay Wright doesn’t seem to be a strong contender given his recent inactivity around coaching. Optimistically, names like Ime Udoka, Jason Kidd, and Tyronn Lue have surfaced. However, Udoka would require permission and compensation from the Rockets. Dallas is unlikely to let Kidd go, and Minnesota probably won’t part with Chris Finch after strong recent performances. The Knicks also have experienced options like Mike Brown, Frank Vogel, Mike Budenholzer, Monty Williams, and Taylor Jenkins available. Jeff Van Gundy is back in coaching but probably won’t take a job, despite his reputation.
What about Mike Thibodeau’s assistant, Rick Brunson, who is also Jalen’s father? The Knicks likely won’t force Brunson’s departure. A new coach unlikely wants to alienate the key face of the franchise by firing his father.
Regarding roster implications, the Knicks were already expected to target a few role players in free agency before Thibodeau’s firing. The idea of trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo remains slim due to many obstacles, including Antetokounmpo needing to request a trade to New York and Milwaukee’s willingness. As for Kevin Durant, a deal for him seems very unlikely.
Despite mixed opinions on Thibodeau, he had impressive accomplishments with the Knicks: reaching the conference finals for the first time in 25 years, winning 50+ games in back-to-back seasons (a first since the mid-90s), making the playoffs in 4 out of 5 years, and winning at least one playoff series for three consecutive years. From 2000 to 2020, the Knicks only won one playoff series total. Even critics must acknowledge Thibodeau helped instill a winning culture.
If the Knicks or their next coach wins a championship, Thibodeau’s contributions will forever be remembered, earning him a lasting place in New York basketball culture.
Fan Take: This move signifies a bold new chapter for the Knicks, showing their commitment to winning an NBA title rather than settling for incremental progress. Basketball fans should watch closely, as this decision could reshape the competitive landscape in the Eastern Conference and inspire other teams to make tough coaching calls in pursuit of greatness.
