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Knicks Dismiss Tom Thibodeau, Launch Coaching Search

President Leon Rose said the move aims to accelerate the franchise’s title pursuit, with veteran coaches Michael Malone, Taylor Jenkins, Frank Vogel under review.

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Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks looks on against the Detroit Pistons during the first quarter in Game Two of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on April 21, 2025 in New York City.
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Overview

  • The Knicks fired Thibodeau on June 3, three days after their Eastern Conference Finals exit, ending his five-season tenure.
  • Under Thibodeau’s leadership, New York reached the conference finals for the first time in 25 years and compiled a 226–174 record with four playoff berths.
  • New York will owe at least $30 million to Thibodeau under a three-year extension signed last summer.
  • Top candidates under consideration include Michael Malone, who led the Nuggets to the 2023 title, Taylor Jenkins and former Suns coach Frank Vogel.
  • Players such as Jalen Brunson and league figures like Tim Hardaway and Rick Carlisle have publicly praised Thibodeau, underlining the divisive response to his departure.