The New York Knicks have officially parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau after a five-season run. The decision came just days after the team’s conference finals exit, a disappointing finish that has left the locker room in disarray. Questions are now emerging not just about the next head coach but also about the internal dynamics of the coaching staff.
A new report from NBA insider Sam Amico has brought to light rising tension within the Knicks’ locker room centered on assistant coach Rick Brunson, who is also the father of team star Jalen Brunson. According to Amico via Hoops Wire, some Knicks players have privately expressed frustration over Rick Brunson’s role.
“Per Hoops Wire sources, multiple Knicks players have been unhappy with the presence of assistant coach Rick Brunson, the father of star guard Jalen Brunson. What that issue is, exactly, has not been determined, though sources suggested that Rick has had too big a say in things,” Amico reported.
It’s reported that some Knicks players aren’t happy with Assistant Coach, Rick Brunson:
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) June 4, 2025
“Multiple Knicks players have been unhappy with the presence of assistant coach Rick Brunson. What that issue is, exactly, has not been determined, though sources suggested that Rick has had… pic.twitter.com/fQ8qc0TgFK
“One source called Rick the person with the most power in the entire organization. His status is uncertain following Thibodeau’s dismissal, though considering he’s Jalen’s dad, many assume Rick will remain with the team in some capacity,” he added.
Rick Brunson Emerges As Unexpected Candidate For Knicks Head Coach
Despite the locker room friction, Rick Brunson’s name has now surfaced as a possible replacement for Tom Thibodeau. As speculation mounts about the team’s next leader, Brunson has surprisingly become one of the leading names in the conversation.
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In terms of betting odds, Michael Malone is currently the top favorite to land the Knicks’ head coaching job, with odds listed at +125. Behind him is Jay Wright at +1500, while Rick Brunson holds the third-best odds, also sitting at +1500.
Before joining the Knicks, Rick Brunson served as an assistant coach for multiple NBA teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, and Chicago Bulls. His extensive experience across different organizations adds weight to his candidacy, even as questions about his influence within the current Knicks structure continue to circulate.
