The New York Knicks, coming off their deepest playoff run in a generation, are at the center of the NBA rumor mill as their high-profile coaching search approaches its endgame.
They remain the only team without a head coach, and recent reports indicate their search is nearing its end. One key detail about the search has the team’s biggest star delivering an interesting reaction.
Jalen Brunson Reacts to Key Detail About Knicks’ Coaching Search
Former Kings head coach Mike Brown has surged to the front of New York’s coaching search, with multiple insiders suggesting his hiring is imminent. Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, has reportedly held in-person meetings with the Knicks’ top brass over the past 48 hours. His candidacy now awaits the green light from team owner James Dolan before becoming official.
The 54-year-old’s resume includes deep playoff runs and stints coaching stars like LeBron James and De’Aaron Fox. Should the deal go through, Brown would replace Tom Thibodeau, whose tenure was marked by both a strong defensive identity and recent playoff relevance.
Interestingly, NBA insider Marc Stein reported that assistant coach Rick Brunson, Jalen Brunson’s father, is expected to be retained under the new regime, along with several members of Thibodeau’s staff. The plan signals an attempt to strike a balance between new leadership and continuity within the locker room.
Stein’s report of Rick surviving the Knicks’ coaching revamp prompted a brief and seemingly sarcastic reaction from Jalen, who posted on X shortly after reports broke:
“WHAT?!”
WHAT?! https://t.co/TWzg9EiE1H
— Jalen Brunson (@jalenbrunson1) July 1, 2025
Knicks Shift Gears on Free Agency After Signing Jordan Clarkson
In another notable development, the Knicks appear to be moving on from their rumored interest in former MVP Russell Westbrook following the acquisition of Jordan Clarkson. According to New York Post insider Stefan Bondy, Clarkson’s signing effectively shuts the door on any serious pursuit of Westbrook, given both players’ similar usage profiles and the limited backcourt minutes available.
From what I’m hearing, I wouldn’t expect the Knicks to sign Russell Westbrook. There’s no clear path to sustained playing time for him on this roster and he’s not the type to sit comfortably on the bench.
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) July 1, 2025
The Knicks reportedly had mutual interest with Westbrook earlier in the free agency period. Clarkson provides a scoring boost off the Knicks’ bench, something especially valuable during stretches when Brunson sits, helping ease the offensive burden.
