Knicks Fire Thibodeau, Expand Coaching Search

The New York Knicks have fired head coach Tom Thibodeau just days after reaching their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000, despite his role in revitalizing the franchise. The move, driven by the team's desire for a championship and dissatisfaction with Thibodeau's bench management, has created a highly sought-after coaching vacancy. Leading candidates include former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone, though he is reportedly unlikely to accept, Cavaliers associate head coach Johnnie Bryant, ex-Villanova coach Jay Wright, Knicks assistant Rick Brunson, and Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka, though the Rockets are expected to deny interview requests. The Knicks are seeking a leader who can maximize the roster's depth and elevate the team to championship status. The firing also continues a recent trend of NBA Coaches of the Year being dismissed within a few seasons. The new coach will inherit a team led by stars such as Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.