The New York Knicks now have a big issue to focus on, and they need to hurry.
Former NBA star Kevin Garnett correctly pointed out that the New York Knicks are working on an unofficial deadline when they try to land a new head coach.
The NBA Draft is just weeks away, followed by direct free agents, which is expected to be a busy period.
The Knicks feel it is essential to hire a new coach before these tent pole events and put themselves in the best position to build a roster from 2025-26.
For the front office, it needs to be a dual approach for the front office, who need to assist the next head coach by preparing a free agency.
Part of the reason Tom Thibodeau was fired was his refusal to use the New York Knicks bench at a critical time.
However, there are things to do to improve the depth of his successor’s roster. Cameron Payne is one player who may not return.
Former NBA star Jeff Teague has some suggestions in mind for the Knicks this offseason.
Teague told Rich Eisenshaw:
“I think Jalen Brunson is doing a lot on his shoulders, getting an offense and trying to order it.”
Pointing to the respective players of the Utah Jazz and the Portland Trail Blazers, Teague has made the following recommendations:
“I think there are a few more players who can score on the bench, like Portland’s Jordan Clarkson and Anfernie Simons.
“I think they still have a championship team, meaning they were right there in the Eastern Conference Finals.”
Jordan Clarkson remained on a contract with the Utah Jazz for a year and became a free agent in 2026. Anfernie Simons is in the same position in Portland.
The New York Knicks fired Tom Thibodeau, despite reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years.
Teague says he didn’t choose to plunder Tom Thibodeau, and he believes he actually needs more support.
He states: