By Michael Phillips
The Tom Thibodeau era in New York officially ended on June 3, 2025, but the New York Knicks’ search for his successor is just getting started—and it’s shaping up to be one of the most fascinating coaching hunts in the NBA.
After a 2024–25 season that ended in playoff disappointment and raised serious questions about the direction of the franchise, the Knicks are looking for a leader who can evolve their identity—one that fits an offense-first league while still bringing the grit New York demands.
Here’s where things stand as of now:
🔥 Leading Candidates
Mike Brown – Former Sacramento Kings Head Coach
Brown is widely viewed as the front-runner. The Knicks have already interviewed him and scheduled a second meeting—rare this early in the process. He brings playoff experience, a Coach of the Year award (2023), and a reputation for both structure and adaptability. However, some in the organization worry that his defense-oriented mindset may not offer enough contrast to Thibodeau.
- Odds: +125 (Favorite)
- Fan Reaction: Mixed—some see a stabilizer, others see another version of Thibs.
Taylor Jenkins – Former Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach
Jenkins, 40, is an analytics-savvy, player-development type who fits the mold of modern NBA coaching. The Knicks admire his ability to foster a team culture, but his recent firing—after just one playoff series win—may raise doubts.
- Odds: Trending upward
- Fan Reaction: Strong among younger fans and media, skeptical among old-school Knicks watchers.
James Borrego – Pelicans Associate Coach
Borrego brings offensive innovation and was part of Gregg Popovich’s coaching tree. If Brown is hired, there’s talk Borrego could come as lead assistant. But don’t count him out as a head coach candidate in his own right—he impressed in Charlotte before being replaced amid a rebuild.
- Odds: +400
- Fan Reaction: Cautiously intrigued.
Micah Nori – Timberwolves Assistant
A wildcard. Nori has never been a head coach but is a player favorite known for charisma, humor, and relationship-building. His link to Karl-Anthony Towns from Minnesota adds a subplot.
- Odds: +650
- Fan Reaction: Cult favorite online. Reddit loves him. Older fans ask, “Micah who?”
🟡 Still in the Mix
Johnnie Bryant – Cavaliers Associate Coach
The former Knicks assistant has the support of several players, particularly Jalen Brunson, but his lack of head coaching experience might make him a longer shot.
- Odds: +240 at one point (now falling)
- Fan Reaction: Strong player support, but little mainstream push.
Jeff Van Gundy – Clippers Assistant Coach
Ah, the nostalgia pick. Van Gundy returning would electrify the fanbase, but he hasn’t coached since 2007, and there’s no confirmation of an interview.
- Odds: Long
- Fan Reaction: Sentimental favorite. Twitter says “Bring him home.” Front office says “Maybe not.”
🚫 Ruled Out or Denied Access
Several high-profile names are officially off the board:
- Jason Kidd, Ime Udoka, Chris Finch, and Quin Snyder were all denied permission by their current teams.
- Jay Wright and Dan Hurley both declined interest.
- Michael Malone is seen as too similar to Thibodeau.
- Luke Walton, Rick Pitino, and Mark Jackson? All rumored, none real contenders.
🧠 What the Knicks Want
According to insiders, the Knicks are prioritizing:
- Offensive creativity to maximize Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges.
- Player development, especially with young talent like Quentin Grimes and Rokas Jokubaitis.
- A leadership presence who won’t burn out players like Thibodeau allegedly did.
- Someone who wants the spotlight—and pressure—of New York.
The team is in no rush to make a hire before the NBA Draft (June 25–26) or even Summer League (starting July 10), suggesting they want to get this one right.
🗣️ Fan Favorites vs. Front Office Leanings
Fan Favorites (based on social media buzz):
- Johnnie Bryant (player support)
- Jeff Van Gundy (nostalgia)
- Micah Nori (cult fandom)
Front Office Likely Favorites:
- Mike Brown
- Taylor Jenkins
- James Borrego
The split between what fans want and what the front office seems to be doing is clear. Knicks fans want a bold new chapter—or a return to the glory days. The front office seems more focused on a steady hand to keep the Brunson-led core competitive.
🏀 Who Should Get the Job?
If you want immediate credibility, playoff stability, and a coach who won’t need a learning curve, Mike Brown is the smart hire.
If you want a long-term culture builder who will develop players and embrace offensive pace, Taylor Jenkins might be the guy.
If you want to swing for the fences and energize the fanbase with risk, Micah Nori or even bringing back Jeff Van Gundy would light a fire in the Garden.
But if you want a wild-card name to watch? Keep one eye on James Borrego. His name keeps popping up—for the top job or as a lead assistant—and those kinds of names often surprise us in the end.
🕰️ What’s Next?
Expect the Knicks to wrap up second interviews by mid-July and likely make a hire before the Summer League concludes. With the roster mostly intact and no major free agency drama, the next coach will inherit one of the most intriguing, talented Knicks teams in two decades.
The only question left is: Who’s got the guts to lead them in New York?
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