Knicks Reportedly Engaged in Talks with Mike Brown, Taylor Jenkins Amid Coaching Evaluation
The New York Knicks are making offseason headlines once again — this time not for a blockbuster trade or a high-profile signing, but for potential changes in the coaching ranks.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the Knicks are initiating conversations with Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown and Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins, sparking speculation about the future of current head coach Tom Thibodeau and the broader direction of the franchise.
While the Knicks have not confirmed any imminent changes, the fact that such discussions are happening at all suggests that team president Leon Rose and the front office are keeping their options open — possibly preparing for a strategic shift as the team looks to elevate from playoff contender to championship threat.
🔍 Inside the Reported Talks
Per ESPN’s report, the Knicks have quietly begun exploratory conversations with Mike Brown, who has earned widespread respect for reviving the Kings franchise and guiding them back to the postseason after a long drought.
Brown, known for his defensive acumen and leadership pedigree, is under contract with Sacramento. However, the Knicks are reportedly evaluating all coaching possibilities — not necessarily because Thibodeau is on the way out, but to ensure they’re aligned with the team’s long-term trajectory.
In parallel, Taylor Jenkins, the innovative and player-focused coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, is also believed to be part of the Knicks’ preliminary inquiries. Jenkins has helped develop a young Memphis squad into a consistent playoff force — and his emphasis on ball movement, pace, and youth development could appeal to the Knicks’ evolving roster strategy.
🧠What Does This Mean for Tom Thibodeau?
This doesn’t automatically spell the end of the Thibodeau era. The veteran coach has helped return New York to playoff relevance, instilling a gritty defensive identity that resonates with fans and ownership alike.
But while Thibs has earned praise for overachieving in prior seasons, there’s growing belief within NBA circles that the Knicks may have reached their competitive ceiling under his leadership. With back-to-back playoff exits and questions about offensive creativity and rotational flexibility, the front office may be quietly assessing whether a different voice is needed to take the next step.
Still, any actual transition would require careful timing and a clear plan — Thibodeau remains under contract and has a strong backing from much of the roster.
🔄 Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins: Viable Candidates?
If the Knicks were to pursue a coaching change, both Brown and Jenkins bring valuable, contrasting skill sets.
- Mike Brown has coached high-level stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry and is widely respected around the league for his playoff experience and player relationships. His recent work in Sacramento demonstrates his ability to build a culture quickly.
- Taylor Jenkins represents a more modern coaching mold — analytics-driven, calm under pressure, and well-regarded for player development. Despite a turbulent 2024 season in Memphis marred by injuries and off-court issues, Jenkins has a proven track record of success with a young core.
However, both coaches are currently under contract with their respective teams, meaning the Knicks would likely need to either request permission to speak with them or wait for potential shakeups in Sacramento or Memphis.
🏀 Knicks at a Crossroads
This development signals a deeper conversation within the organization: What’s the best coaching fit for the roster moving forward? With a core that includes Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and promising young players like Quentin Grimes and Miles McBride, the Knicks must decide whether Thibodeau’s tough-love approach is still effective — or if a more progressive, adaptable coach could help unlock untapped potential.
With high expectations for the 2025–26 season and pressure from both fans and ownership, the Knicks are entering a pivotal offseason.
đź”® What Comes Next?
No official changes have been made, and the Knicks have not publicly commented on the rumors. However, the timing of these talks — so soon after their playoff elimination — suggests that internal evaluations are well underway.
For now, Thibodeau remains the head coach. But with names like Brown and Jenkins surfacing, it’s clear the New York front office is considering all angles as it weighs its next move.
One thing’s certain: The Knicks’ offseason just got a lot more interesting.