Introduction
The New York Knicks have come a long way this season, culminating in an impressive run to the Eastern Conference Finals. Under the leadership of head coach Tom Thibodeau, the team exhibited resilience and skill, showcasing the talents of key contributors, including Jalen Brunson. However, as the Knicks look towards the future, the necessity of evaluating Thibodeau’s coaching and whether it’s time for a change looms large.
The Rise of Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson has emerged as a cornerstone of the Knicks’ resurgence. After being brought in as a free agent before the 2022-23 season, his leadership on and off the court has transformed the team’s offensive execution. In the 2024-25 season, Brunson averaged 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, while shooting 48% from the field and 39% from three-point range.
His ability to create plays, coupled with his clutch scoring, has made him the go-to player in critical moments throughout the playoffs. One of the defining highlights of Brunson’s season was his performance in the Conference Semifinals, where he led the Knicks against the Atlanta Hawks, averaging over 27 points a game and demonstrating remarkable poise. This run not only solidified his status as a star in the league but also signaled that the Knicks could compete at the highest levels.
Grade: A
Brunson’s ability to elevate his game when it mattered most has earned him an ‘A’ for his contributions this season. He has proven to be the franchise player the Knicks have lacked for years, showcasing his skillset and leadership while guiding the team deep into the playoffs.
RJ Barrett’s Development
RJ Barrett’s development has been another critical component of the Knicks’ success this season. After a somewhat inconsistent previous season, Barrett took significant strides forward in 2024-25. He averaged 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, improving his shooting efficiency and decision-making on the court.
Notably, Barrett has become much more reliable from beyond the arc, shooting 37% on three-pointers this year, a substantial improvement from his prior seasons. His ability to contribute as a secondary scorer next to Brunson was invaluable for the Knicks during their playoff run. Barrett also showed flashes of his potential as a defender, often matched up against the opposing team’s best offensive player.
Grade: B+
Given his growth and potential, Barrett deserves a solid ‘B+’ for this season. His maturation into a consistent scoring threat and a versatile player is encouraging for the Knicks’ future.
The Julius Randle Conundrum
Julius Randle’s season was perhaps one of the most polarizing aspects of the Knicks’ campaign. Coming off an All-Star season in 2023, there were high expectations for Randle to replicate that success. He did have moments of brilliance, averaging 22 points and 9 rebounds per game, but he also displayed inconsistency that left many fans disappointed.
In the playoffs, Randle struggled at times, often failing to convert in crucial moments. His tendency to isolate and dominate the ball sometimes disrupted team chemistry, leading to questions about his fit alongside Brunson and Barrett. Randle’s performance is critical for the Knicks, as their ceiling is tied to his ability to play at an elite level consistently.
Grade: C
Randle’s grade is a ‘C’ due to the mixed bag of performances throughout the season. While his talent is undeniable, the Knicks need him to rise to the challenge if they wish to ascend to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Tom Thibodeau’s Coaching: A Double-Edged Sword
Tom Thibodeau’s role as head coach has been essential in shaping the Knicks into a competitive playoff team. His defensive acumen and ability to maximize player potential cannot be overlooked. Thibodeau instilled a hard-nosed approach that emphasized effort and determination, qualities that helped the Knicks emerge victorious in tightly contested matchups.
However, some concerns linger regarding his coaching style. Thibodeau has been criticized for his stringent rotations and the heavy minutes his starters endure. This year more than ever, the wear and tear appeared to impact players like Randle and Barrett during critical playoff moments.
Furthermore, Thibodeau’s reliance on veteran players sometimes stymied the development of young talent. Notably, players like Immanuel Quickley and Obi Toppin saw limited minutes, raising questions about their growth and future within the organization.
Grade: B
While Thibodeau deserves credit for resurrecting the Knicks and leading them to success, ultimately, an uncomfortable ‘B’ reflects the notion that it might be time for a fresh perspective to unlock the team’s full potential.
Three Key Takeaways from the Eastern Conference Finals Run
1. The Importance of Star Power
The Knicks’ journey this season reiterated the significance of having star talent. Jalen Brunson proved he could be the franchise player, but as the team moves forward, surrounding him with complementary stars will be vital. The organization has assets and flexibility to pursue additional star-caliber players, making it crucial to be aggressive in their approach.
2. Building Around a Core
With Brunson, Barrett, and Randle as the foundation, the Knicks need to continue fine-tuning their roster and enhancing team chemistry. Finding the right role players and ensuring the existing stars can coexist effectively will be pertinent for future success.
3. Tom Thibodeau’s Future
As the Knicks evaluate their trajectory, the question marks around Thibodeau persist. While he has resurrected the franchise, can he adapt and adjust to elevate the team’s potential further? The possibility of change may be necessary for a franchise aspiring to thrive in the hyper-competitive Eastern Conference.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 season marked a turning point for the New York Knicks. With key contributions from players like Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett, the team has laid a strong foundation for the future. However, as they enter the offseason, difficult decisions await. The balance of building on success and recognizing when changes are necessary will ultimately determine the Knicks’ path forward. The question remains: is it time for a coaching change, or can Tom Thibodeau take the Knicks to the next level? Only time will tell.
