Knicks Seek New Head Coach After Dismissing Tom Thibodeau

Following their exit from the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks have terminated head coach Tom Thibodeau. The franchise has also reportedly requested permission to engage in discussions with Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets and Chris Finch of the Minnesota Timberwolves for their head coaching position; however, these requests were denied.

This development comes a week after reports indicated that former Villanova coach Jay Wright declined consideration for the Knicks’ head coaching role.

Potential Candidates

Reports suggest that Jason Kidd, the current head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, is also on the Knicks’ radar. Nevertheless, sources indicate that the Mavericks anticipate Kidd, 52, will remain with the team, and the Knicks have not yet formally requested permission to speak with him.

Thibodeau’s Tenure

Tom Thibodeau’s departure follows a five-season tenure with the Knicks, during which the team secured four playoff appearances. This year marked their most successful campaign in 25 years, which included a victory over the defending champions, the Boston Celtics, in the second round.

Key Achievements
  • Thibodeau guided the Knicks to 50 wins in two consecutive seasons, a feat not achieved since 1995.
  • He ranks fourth in all-time wins in franchise history, surpassing Pat Riley.
Udoka and Finch Profiles
  • Ime Udoka, 47, led the Celtics to the NBA Finals in the 2021-22 season, his only year as Boston’s head coach. He faced suspension the subsequent season due to a violation of team policy. Over the past two seasons, Udoka coached the Rockets, achieving a combined regular-season record of 93-71.
  • Chris Finch, 55, recently concluded his fifth season as head coach in Minnesota, leading the Timberwolves to the postseason for the fourth consecutive year. This includes Western Conference Finals appearances in the past two years.