NEW YORK – The New York Knicks stunned fans by parting ways with Tom Thibodeau. After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, Thibodeau seemed safe. He had delivered back-to-back 50+ win seasons—something Knicks fans hadn’t seen since the 1990s. But management wanted more. Knicks president Leon Rose said the move was about “doing what’s best” for the team’s championship push. That message? Loud and clear. Now, with Thibodeau gone, the spotlight shifts to the search for his replacement. Bovada has released the odds for the next Knicks head coach. According to Bovada, several intriguing names sit atop the list—some expected, some surprising, and others full of potential.
Odds For Next Knicks Coach Offers Some Interesting Surprises
Johnnie Bryant Leads the Pack
Johnnie Bryant holds the best odds at +240. The Cavaliers assistant also a finalist for the Suns’ head coaching job, so teams are clearly impressed. Known for his strong player development and modern offensive outlook, Bryant has connected well with young talent. Knicks brass could see him as someone who could grow alongside their core players.
Knicks next coach odds:
Johnnie Bryant +240
Kenny Atkinson +400
James Borrego +950
Mike Budenholzer +950
Patrick Ewing +950
Sam Cassell +950
Frank Vogel +1100
Chris Quinn +1400
Jay Wright +1400
Mark Jackson +1400
Mike D’Antoni +2000
Becky Hammon (LVA) +2500
Jeff Van Gundy +2500… pic.twitter.com/inyiu66fHs— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 3, 2025
Hiring Bryant would signal a move toward stability and long-term development. He isn’t a household name yet, but the odds suggest he may not be a secret for much longer.
Kenny Atkinson: The Local Favorite
At +400, Kenny Atkinson’s name brings both logic and emotion. He just led the Cavaliers to 64 wins and earned Coach of the Year honors. While he signed a long-term deal in Cleveland a year ago, his Long Island roots make the Knicks job tempting.
Atkinson’s ability to develop talent stands out. He helped turn the Nets into playoff contenders. If the Cavaliers’ front office allowed it, the Knicks could bring him home. Based on the current odds for the next Knicks coach, he’s a strong dark horse.
Mid-Tier Contenders: Borrego, Budenholzer, Ewing, Cassell
Several candidates share +950 odds. Each brings something different:
- James Borrego offers a strong offensive mind and head coaching experience. He worked under Gregg Popovich and coached the Hornets between 2018 and 2022. His tactical know-how and steady demeanor would suit Madison Square Garden.
- Mike Budenholzer brings championship pedigree. He won a title with the Bucks in 2021 and has two Coach of the Year trophies. Bud’s reputation took a huge hit after his recent coaching stint on the Suns. Still, he’s a widely respected basketball mind.
- Patrick Ewing, a Knicks icon, would make headlines. Fans may love the idea of him returning as head coach. He coached Georgetown for six seasons and spent time as an NBA assistant. Still, questions remain about whether he can navigate the demands of today’s NBA bench.
- Sam Cassell has NBA Finals experience as a player and spent time as an assistant coach with playoff-bound teams like the Clippers. Known for his leadership and motivational energy, Cassell could be a sleeper pick.
These names represent different strengths, from NBA titles to deep player relationships. If the Knicks choose one of them, it won’t be without solid reasoning.
Stephen A. Smith: The Entertainment Pick
Yes, Stephen A. Smith appears on the list—with +6000 odds. It’s the longest shot by far, but it reflects his deep passion for the team. While Smith has never coached, his name remains synonymous with Knicks fandom. The odds feel more like a playful gesture than a serious option, but hey—stranger things have happened.
More Names in the Mix
The Knicks next coach odds also include notable names like Frank Vogel (+1100), Chris Quinn (+1400), and Jay Wright (+1400). Each brings unique skills:
- Vogel won a championship with the Lakers and has a defensive mindset.
- Quinn rose through the Heat system and could bridge veterans and youth.
- Wright built a college dynasty at Villanova but lacks NBA head coaching experience.
Mark Jackson, Mike D’Antoni, Becky Hammon, Jeff Van Gundy, Jerry Stackhouse, Adrian Griffin, and Micah Nori round out the list. While their odds range from +1400 to +2800, any could jump the line if interviews go well or team priorities shift.
Why Thibodeau’s Time Ran Out
Though Thibodeau brought success, the Knicks felt his voice had grown stale. His rigid rotations drew criticism. His offensive sets relied too much on Jalen Brunson. The pairing with Karl-Anthony Towns never clicked. And the he never trusted his bench until it was too late.
Multiple sources said players quietly grew tired of Thibodeau’s heavy-handed approach. Even stars like Mikal Bridges reportedly asked for reduced minutes. When the team struggled to adjust against Rick Carlisle’s Indiana Pacers, the writing was on the wall.
Odds for Next Knicks Head Coach Reveal Some Interesting Names
The Knicks want to win now. Every candidate in the pool offers something unique. Whether they go with a modern mind like Bryant, a proven winner like Budenholzer, or a bold name like Ewing, the next coach must deliver results—and fast.
With a talented core and massive expectations, the pressure is real.
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