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Knicks Hire Mike Brown as Head Coach, Manage $33 Million Thibodeau Buyout

Brown’s championship pedigree anchors a longer-term vision with bolstered bench depth, tighter salary-cap control.

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Dec 12, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown gives direction as he stands on the court against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images/File Photo
Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown in the second half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
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Overview

  • Mike Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year with a 454-304 career record, was officially introduced as New York’s head coach on July 7.
  • The Knicks agreed to cover the full $33 million remaining on Tom Thibodeau’s contract, and Derrick Rose reported that Thibodeau is in good spirits following his departure.
  • Free-agent forwards Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson have been signed to upgrade a second unit that ranked last in bench scoring during the 2024-25 season.
  • New York has reached out to multiple backup guards, including inquiries on players after missing out on Dante Exum and Ben Simmons, to fit Brown’s faster-paced system.
  • NBA analyst Brad Botkin has speculated that the franchise may trade Mikal Bridges this summer to avoid a potential $156 million extension and preserve roster flexibility.