Knicks Make Major Tom Thibodeau Decision on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Borba | Last updated Jun 3, 2025 3:51 PM ET

Being a head coach of an NBA franchise is a thankless job, to say the least.

It's a lesson that New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau was reminded of on Tuesday in the worst way, despite all of his success with the franchise the past few years.

After leading the New York Knicks to the franchise's first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years this season, the two-time NBA Coach of the Year was relieved of his duties, as reported by ESPN's Shams Charania.

"The New York Knicks are relieving Tom Thibodeau of his duties as head coach, sources tell ESPN," wrote Charania. "Thibodeau led the Knicks to their first East Finals in 25 years, made playoffs in 4 of 5 years and led Knicks to consecutive 50+ win seasons for first time since the 1990s."

Thibodeau was hired to replace David Fizdale, who was the head coach for just 104 games before they moved on.

While the fan base loved this year's group, Thibodeau caught flak for his unwillingness to give stars such as Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges rest and utilize bench players more prominently. A strategy that he has become known for throughout his career.

Although his tenure ended on a sour note as the team lost to the Indiana Pacers 4-2 in the East Finals, Thibodeau departs as the fourth-winningest coach in Knicks history, trailing only Red Holzman, Joe Lapchick and Jeff Van Gundy.

As revealed by Charania, the historic franchise is looking for a new voice to take them to the next level.

"The Knicks are singularly focused on their pursuit of a championship and believe a new voice will serve as the focus for the organization's next step, sources said," wrote Charania. "After five seasons with the Knicks, Tom Thibodeau is out as head coach."

It is unclear what new voice can get them over the hump and lead the franchise to its first title since 1973, but this job certainly has all of the makings of an attractive landing spot considering the market and star power on the roster.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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