The Knicks are in trouble. They fired Tom Thibodeau a few days after the deepest playoff game in 25 years and are now knocked down in search of a replacement.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, New York has been denied to speak with four head coaches: Jason Kidd, Chris Finch, Ime Udoka, Quin Snyder.
Since Shams' report, Chicago seems to have rejected New York again, Bulls Insider KC Johnson.
“The Knicks asked for permission to speak with Billy Donovan, asking for an open coaching position, but was denied according to the source,” he said. “The Bulls' acumen of Donovan, communication skills, and ability to connect with players and all members of the organization put Donovan very seriously.”
Kidd has only recently led Dallas to the finals. Finch's Minnesota is rising. Udoka steals Houston's playoff drought and finishes second. Snyder's eagle doubled in his vision. Even Jay Wright, with a deep connection to several Knicks players from his Villanova era, gave a firm “no”.
Meanwhile, Thibodeau left the city in the same way: with perseverance and gratitude.
He is The New York Times Thanks to fans.
Thanks, New York. pic.twitter.com/bkpzlbegux
– Tom Thibodeau (@Thibodeau_96709) June 11, 2025
“Go to the best city in the world and have the best fans in the world: Thank you,” he wrote. “When I was hired in 2020, I said it was my dream job. I’m grateful for the dream being a reality.”
“I'm proud of everything we've done together, including four playoff appearances and our first in 25 years to reach the Eastern Conference Finals this year,” Thibodeau added.
It is reported that some players are tired of his method, but the result is a lot: 51 wins this season, the playoff push and this identity feel like the Knicks basketball.
Now, the question about the Knicks’ next person remains, but hopefully. Names like Mike Budenholzer, Jeff Van Gundy, Mike Brown and even Michael Malone have all surfaced. But for now, Madison Square Garden responded with uncertainty.
Read more: The latest Intel about the Knicks' interest in Jason Kidd
