Tom Thibodeau (NBA – Former New York Knicks)
October 2025
Despite 226–174 across five seasons and a return to the East finals, ownership opted for a reset, with Dolan reportedly leading the call. Thibodeau, a former COY in New York, has toured camps (Boston, Phoenix), sharing methods while awaiting the right opening. The move signals a ceiling concern amid roster recalibration and cap strategy.
Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks)
September 2025
Knicks big man Karl-Anthony Towns addressed criticism of his defensive weaknesses, saying all feedback helps him improve. After averaging 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds last season, the five-time All-Star insists he will continue reinventing himself until he wins a championship ring. Towns dismissed doubts about his focus, stressing his yearly growth and commitment. Despite friction noted in The Athletic, he emphasised resilience. Knicks’ Eastern Conference Finals run ended in disappointment, compounded by coach Tom Thibodeau’s surprise sacking after five playoff appearances in five years.
Tyronn Lue (LA Clippers)
September 2025
LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue criticised the New York Knicks for firing Tom Thibodeau despite reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, calling the decision baffling after a successful 51-31 season. Lue told Shannon Sharpe the Knicks acted rashly in replacing Thibodeau with Mike Brown. With stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, Lue argued New York wasted momentum by prioritising “championship or bust” over consistency.