Shams Charania reported that following the New York Knicks’ first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in over 25 years, head coach Tom Thibodeau will be released from his duties after five seasons. 

In five seasons, Thibodeau went 226-174. He took the Knicks to four playoff appearances in his fives seasons. He also led the Knicks to a consecutive 50+ win season for the first time since the 1990s. 

A 2021 NBA Coach of the Year winner, Thibodeau helped the Knicks reach a pinnacle in the franchises steps toward resurgence.

Thibodeau’s firing comes just two days after the Knicks’ season-ending loss in game 6 to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. 

In the postgame interview following the loss, Jalen Brunson was asked if he believes Thibodeau can lead the Knicks to the next step and continue progressing. Brunson answered. 

“Is that a real question right now? Did you just ask me if I believe that he’s the right guy? Yes.” Brunson said. 

Knicks President Leon Rose, who over the last three seasons has signed Brunson and traded for Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and recently Karl-Anthony Towns, has given Thibodeau a highly competitive roster. This offseason, there were rumors to make even more roster changes. The team will now need to look for a new head coach. 

Charania also reported that with the Knicks focused on taking the next step in pursuit of an NBA title, they believe a new voice will serve as the focus for the next step.