Rose ‘s first major move as president was signing a five – year contract with manager Tom Thibodeau. The Rose and Knicks front office interviewed a wide range of nominees that also included former Brooklyn Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson, current Knicks assistant Mike Woodson and former interim Knicks head coach Mike Miller, including the other candidates.
Thibodeau has reinvigorated the Knicks franchise with a renewed culture and attention to detail in defense. In 23rd place in defensive efficiency last year, the Knicks have moved up to second in that category this season. New York has finished the Top 10 in defensive efficiency only once since Thibodeau’s coach mentor Jeff Van Gundy stepped down in 2001.
Thibodeau was also able to get the most out of his players. The team’s offense could improve and Thibodeau could loosen on Randle’s minutes. However, the signing was a smart move. New York has built a team that is competitive every night and capable of winning. This is something that could not be said about this franchise in the previous two seasons.