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Knicks' plan to hire new top assistant has fallen through

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 1:30 PM ET

After coming up short on their preferred targets at the start of their coaching search, the New York Knicks appear to have swung and missed at their top assistant coach target as well.

Ian Begley of SNY reported Wednesday that James Borrego, the main target to become Mike Brown’s top assistant in New York, will remain with the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans sought to retain Borrego and have successfully done so.

Pelicans associate head coach James Borrego, a Knicks target for a lead spot on Mike Brown’s staff, will be staying in New Orleans, per league sources familiar with the matter. Knicks interviewed Borrego for their head coaching position and had interest in adding him to Brown’s…
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) July 9, 2025

The Knicks had strongly prioritized Borrego for the role of lead assistant, but faced roadblocks as the new job was not technically a promotion. As such, the Pelicans had the right to step in and prevent Borrego from leaving, and they have done so.

It is unclear what the Knicks’ backup plan is. While they are keeping ex-coach Tom Thibodeau’s top assistant in the fold, they are also demoting him, so the job is very much open.

Borrego, 47, has been an assistant coach with the Pelicans since 2023. He previously served as the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets for four seasons. The Hornets went 138-163 under him and never made the postseason, though they did have a winning season in his final year 2021-2022. Borrego is highly regarded for his offensive coaching systems.

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

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