There was a time when making the playoffs felt out of reach for the New York Knicks. Fast forward to today, and simply reaching the Eastern Conference Finals isn’t enough. After falling two wins short of the NBA Finals, New York decided it was time for a change.
End of the Thibodeau Era
The Knicks parted ways with Tom Thibodeau, despite him being the architect of their resurgence. Thibodeau took over in 2020 after seven straight playoff absences, won NBA Coach of the Year in his debut season, and eventually guided the team to its first conference finals appearance since 1999.
Still, issues like unbalanced rotations — such as overplaying Josh Hart while limiting Miles McBride — left critics questioning his ability to maximize talent in high-stakes games.
Mike Brown Takes the Helm
To get over the hump, the Knicks turned to Mike Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year most recently with the Sacramento Kings. Brown is expected to rely more on bench depth, a stark contrast to Thibodeau’s heavy starter usage.
Offseason Additions: Depth and Versatility
The Knicks re-signed forward Mikal Bridges and added proven scorers and veterans to strengthen their rotation. Key signings include:
- Jordan Clarkson (offensive spark and instant scoring)
- Guerschon Yabusele (frontcourt depth and energy)
- Guards Landry Shamet, Malcolm Brogdon, and Garrison Mathews (training camp deals for perimeter shooting and backcourt insurance)
Shamet, for example, impressed last season by averaging 5.7 points on efficient shooting splits, including 39.7% from three-point range.
Latest Move: Alex Len Joins on Exhibit 9 Deal
The Knicks also announced the signing of veteran center Alex Len to an Exhibit 9 contract, a non-guaranteed deal allowing him to fight for a roster spot in training camp.
Len, the former No. 5 overall pick in 2013, split last season between the Kings and Lakers, averaging 1.6 points and 0.8 rebounds in limited minutes. While not a game-changer, his size and experience could provide valuable depth in the frontcourt.
Eyes on the Finals
With a revamped coaching staff, a deeper roster, and stars like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way, the Knicks enter the 2025 season with one clear mission: turning playoff success into an NBA Finals breakthrough.
