On June 11, 2025, Tom Thibodeau officially bid farewell to the New York Knicks in a heartfelt, full-page advertisement in The New York Times. The message thanked fans, players, coaching staff, and the city that gave him his “dream job” and supported him through five seasons of rebuilding, including four playoff appearances and an Eastern Conference Finals berth—the first by the franchise in 25 years.
Thibodeau’s Legacy in New York
Since taking the helm in July 2020, Thibodeau compiled a 226–174 regular-season record (.565) and a 24–23 playoff record, guiding the Knicks to back-to-back 50+ win seasons—the first since the mid-1990s. His leadership revitalized the team, with notable successes including an upset over defending champions Boston in the 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals .
In his ad, Thibodeau wrote:
“To the best city in the world with the best fans in the world: Thank you … When I was hired in 2020, I said this was my dream job … I am proud of everything we accomplished together…”.
Yet, despite these achievements, Knicks president Leon Rose announced Thibodeau would be dismissed on June 3, 2025, citing the franchise’s ongoing “singularly focused” pursuit of an NBA championship.
Why the Split?
While the Knicks advanced further than they had in decades, internal friction reportedly played a role. Some critics noted Thibodeau’s strict rotations and intense style might have limited the team’s ceiling—a view echoed by those citing “management doubts about his ability to deliver a championship”..
Despite a three-year extension signed in 2024 worth $10–11 million annually, the front office chose a different path after the postseason exit to the Pacers.
Coaching Search Hits a Wall
Now, the Knicks find themselves at a crossroads—without a successor and facing repeated roadblocks in their search:
- Jason Kidd of the Mavericks was unavailable, as Dallas denied interview permission
. - Ime Udoka (Rockets) and Chris Finch (Timberwolves) also denied access to the Knicks for talks.
- Other names floated include former Villanova coach Jay Wright, who reportedly expressed disinterest.
- Additional potential candidates under consideration include Taylor Jenkins, James Borrego, and Michael Malone, though none are confirmed.
With the 2025–26 season approaching and Summer League just weeks away, pressure is mounting for the Knicks to secure a head coach who fits their championship aspirations .
What’s Next for the Knicks?
- Immediate priorities: Finalize a head coach before the NBA Draft and Summer League to allow meaningful influence on roster decisions and tactical direction.
- Balancing act: The team must choose between a coach with playoff pedigree or a fresh face capable of evolving styles and rotation flexibility.
- Championship mindset: With fans and media alike expecting more than just contention, the pressure is on.
The Long-Term Impact
Parting ways with Thibodeau marks a pivotal moment. If their next hire can build upon the defensive foundation and playoff success of the last five years, New York could enter a new era of sustained contention. But missteps in the coaching selection could risk losing the momentum Thibodeau cultivated.
Bottom line: Tom Thibodeau’s departure—the coach who ended a 25-year Eastern Conference Finals drought—has been underscored by appreciation and palpable nostalgia. But now, as the Knicks hit roadblocks courting replacements and confront tight timelines, the franchise must capitalize on new leadership to match its renewed ambition.
