Knicks’ Current Top Coaching Candidate Revealed
Knicks' Current Top Coaching Candidate Revealed
The New York Knicks have shifted their focus toward available coaches after unsuccessful attempts to interview candidates under contract with other NBA teams. Mike Brown has emerged as a significant candidate receiving increased attention from the Knicks front office. Taylor Jenkins, formerly of the Memphis Grizzlies, is also under serious consideration.
Brown’s coaching record includes notable achievements during his recent tenure with the Sacramento Kings. In his first season (2022-2023), he guided the Kings to a 48-34 record and their first playoff appearance after a 16-year drought. His second season saw a slight decline to 46-36, missing the postseason. The Kings dismissed Brown after a 13-18 start in the 2024-2025 season, a decision that drew significant criticism across the league.
A connection between Brown and the Knicks already exists through team president William Wesley. Their relationship dates back to Brown’s time coaching in Cleveland, where Wesley maintained connections within LeBron James’ circle. Brown previously interviewed for the Knicks position in 2020 before Tom Thibodeau’s hiring, reportedly leaving a strong impression on the organization’s leadership.
Brown’s Career Highlights:
- Two-time NBA Coach of the Year
- Led Kings to their first playoff appearance in 16 years
- Previous head coaching experience with Cavaliers (two stints) and Lakers
- Assistant coach for Golden State Warriors during championship seasons
At 55 years old, Brown brings substantial coaching experience and a proven ability to improve struggling franchises. His defensive expertise and player development skills make him an intriguing candidate for the Knicks’ position.
The Knicks’ coaching search appears quite flexible at this stage. After being denied permission to interview their reported top choice and other employed coaches, the organization has broadened its search criteria. There are even reports suggesting consideration of former Knicks coaches, indicating the team is exploring all available options.
Both Brown and Jenkins represent experienced options who would not require permission from other teams to interview, simplifying the hiring process as the Knicks look to finalize their coaching decision.
A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
