The New York Knicks are heading into another summer of major transition. After parting ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau, the franchise is now searching for the right leader for its next chapter.
This time, however, the role demands more than just basketball strategy; it requires adept media management, skillful locker room leadership, and the ability to thrive under Madison Square Garden’s demanding spotlight.
According to new rumblings, the Knicks may have their eyes on a familiar face with a rare résumé.
Knicks May Hire Player-Turned-Coach With NY Ties, Says Marc Stein
One name gaining traction as the Knicks evaluate their coaching options is Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd.
More than just his coaching success, Kidd’s experience playing and coaching in New York, plus his connection to the franchise’s key figures, makes him a natural fit.
“Kidd is a successful player-turned-coach — which is said to appeal to the Knicks — who also has considerable familiarity in dealing with the glaring Gotham spotlight as well as the New York media from his time as both a Knick and as a Nets player and coach,” reported veteran NBA insider Marc Stein.
“That’s a hugely important aspect of the job given that Thibodeau was so often thrust into the role of team spokesman for a franchise whose executives are extremely media-avoidant.”
The latest on the Knicks’ coaching search and their interest in former Knick Jason Kidd: https://t.co/2oyIDH5yUL
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— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 10, 2025
The Knicks aren’t just seeking X’s and O’s; they want someone who can manage the public-facing role Thibodeau often handled alone. Kidd, who played for the Knicks during their last 50-win season in 2012-13, has experience handling and succeeding in New York’s demanding environment.
This familiarity, coupled with his tenure as both a Nets player and head coach, gives Kidd rare insight into navigating New York’s sports culture. The Knicks reportedly value this deeply, especially given an ownership group known for avoiding the media spotlight.
Kidd’s Strong Ties to Jalen Brunson May Work in His Favor
Beyond Kidd’s past in New York, more subtle connections are fueling this conversation. Knicks owner James Dolan reportedly holds longstanding respect for Kidd, stemming from their single season together in 2012-13.
Though team president Leon Rose made the final decision to hire Tom Thibodeau in 2020, reports indicate Kidd had previously interviewed with the same front office for the job. With the coaching seat now vacant again, Kidd’s name is resurfacing, this time with more accolades to his name.
Kidd led the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals, ultimately falling short against the Boston Celtics. However, with Dallas having undergone a massive roster shakeup, including the surprising Luka Dončić-Anthony Davis trade, Kidd’s position security is uncertain. While his openness to a move is unknown, the Knicks’ interest is undeniably real.
Another potential boost for Kidd’s possible return to New York is the widespread belief that Knicks’ star guard Jalen Brunson is a Kidd fan, following their successful collaboration in Dallas. Such player-coach chemistry could offer the Knicks a smoother transition, especially after reports of player discontent during the Thibodeau era.
Even with four excellent seasons in five years under Thibodeau, there was always a sense the Knicks hit a ceiling. The offense often stalled late in playoff games, and Thibodeau’s in-game rigidity became a growing concern. Ultimately, it was Dolan who stepped in and made the final decision to fire him.
Now, the Knicks are eyeing a very different kind of leader: a Hall of Fame point guard, NBA champion, 10-time All-Star, and proven tactician who understands precisely what it takes to survive and potentially thrive within the Knicks’ unique basketball culture.