After recently handing out a contract extension to their general manager Scott Perry, New York Knicks are now ready to embark on a search for a new head coach. According to The Athletic, Knicks already have several candidates in mind with former Minnesota Timberwolves’ HC Tom Thibodeau being identified as their main target for the position.
Knicks fired their head coach David Fizdale back in December, replacing him with assistant Mike Miller, who took over the team on an interim basis. And while the front office is pleased with Miller’s work, the organization would like to proceed with a more experienced and reputable name.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reports that Knicks will interview a number of candidates as part of the process, but are currently leaning towards Thibodeau. The former Brooklyn Nets’ head coach Kenny Atkinson is also expected to receive consideration.
Tom Thibodeau has a reputation for being a tough and demanding coach, which is why he would fit with the New York Knicks perfectly. Knicks have been a laughingstock of the NBA in recent years, so Thibodeau’s hard-working regime might help the franchise get back on track.
Thibodeau previously served as a head coach of Chicago Bulls between 2010 and 2015, leading the franchise to playoffs in each season he spent there. He reached Eastern Conference finals once and was NBA Coach of the Year in 2011.
In 2016, Thibodeau took over the Timberwolves and helped the franchise reach the playoffs for the first time in 14 years during the 2017–18. He was fired by Minnesota in early 2019 and has been without work ever since.
