In the wake of a potential contract extension this summer with the New York Knicks, Tom Thibodeau has expressed his desire to remain with the team. The 66-year-old coach acknowledged that his agent will handle the negotiations, but stated that the Knicks have been great to him and this is where he wants to be. Without an extension, Thibodeau would enter the final season of his five-year deal, a situation that could make his status uncertain as coaches typically do not make it to the lame-duck status without either being extended or fired. While a source expressed confidence that an agreement between the Knicks and Thibodeau will be reached, nothing is certain until a contract is signed. Recent NBA coaches’ salaries have significantly increased, with a deal starting above $10 million considered to be the going rate.
Thibodeau has led the Knicks to three playoff appearances in two years, with a series record of 2-3, including a loss in the Eastern Conference semifinals sealed in a defeat against the Pacers. He currently ranks fifth on the franchise’s all-time wins list with 175, placing him below only Pat Riley, Jeff Van Gundy, Joe Lapchick, and Red Holzman. Players such as Josh Hart and OG Anunoby praised Thibodeau following the playoff defeat, emphasizing his achievements as Coach of the Year in 2021, his ability to guide the team to the playoffs and the second round, and his foundation-building for the future success of the team. Despite the setback in the playoffs, both players expressed their admiration for Thibodeau as a great coach who is well-prepared, makes effective in-game adjustments, and has laid a solid foundation for the team’s progress.
As the season concluded, Josh Hart voiced his desire for his teammates Isaiah Hartenstein and OG Anunoby to return to the Knicks. Anunoby is expected to become an unrestricted free agent by declining his $20 million player option for the next season. The Knicks have his Bird Rights, allowing them to exceed the salary cap in order to re-sign him. Hartenstein is also an unrestricted free agent, with the Knicks holding his Early Bird Rights, enabling them to offer a starting salary of about $16 million if they are over the cap. Thibodeau expressed his fondness for the team, stating that as a coach, he couldn’t ask for a better group to work with. The future of the team hinges on decisions regarding key players such as Anunoby and Hartenstein, as well as potential contract negotiations with Thibodeau.
In light of the positive feedback from players and Thibodeau’s desire to continue with the Knicks, the possibility of a contract extension for the coach seems likely. Thibodeau’s tenure with the Knicks has been marked by significant accomplishments, including multiple playoff appearances and a strong foundation set for future success. With his impressive track record and the support of the team’s players, the Knicks management is likely to pursue an agreement with Thibodeau for an extension. The increased salaries for NBA coaches further support the notion that a deal in excess of $10 million is reasonable for a coach of Thibodeau’s caliber and achievements.
The success and progress made under Thibodeau’s leadership have garnered recognition from players, management, and fans alike. His impact on the team’s performance, player development, and overall culture has been widely acknowledged. As the Knicks look to build on their recent achievements and aspire to become a championship team, the continuity provided by retaining Thibodeau as head coach could be crucial. By securing a contract extension with Thibodeau and potentially re-signing key players like Anunoby and Hartenstein, the Knicks can strengthen their foundation for future success in the highly competitive NBA landscape. Thibodeau’s commitment to the team, combined with the support of players and management, sets a positive tone for the Knicks’ plans and aspirations moving forward.
